Business North February

February 2016

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Breaking new ground Page 6

Forster leaves with no regrets Hugh de Lacy Tony Forster, the Scotsman charged with drilling health and safety into New Zealand’s extractives industry in the wake of the 2010 Pike River coalmine disaster, is heading home with the satisfaction of a job well done.

Formerly Her Majesty’s Principal Inspector of Mines for the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, Forster was head-hunted three years ago by the Government to fill the new role of Chief Inspector Extractives of Worksafe NZ’s High Hazards Unit.

As such his job was to put in place the performance-based codes of practice that were missing when the Health and Safety in Employment Act (HSE) came into force in 1991.

The key problem with the HSE, identified by the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Pike River

disaster that killed 29 miners, was that it failed to replace the old prescriptive workplace safety regimes when it moved to a performance-based system.

That led to the breakdown in extractives industry safety inspectorate that allowed Pike River to operate in a dangerous manner.

The changes that have occurred in the industry since then have been “seismic,” Foster told Business North.

“The first thing we put in place was the Health and Safety in Employment (Mining Operations and Quarrying Operations) Regulations, which came into effect on December 16 [2013].

“That put a number of key components into the regulations, of which the main ones were establishing a health and safety management system built around the concept of principal hazards, and establishing core competence and

continuing professional development for safetycritical post-holders,” Forster said.

Principal Hazard Management Plans addressed hazards that had the potential for multiple casualties in a single catastrophic event, or in a series of repeating incidents.

“This was a massive change for New Zealand, and it does to a degree follow some of the model legislation in Australia, but it also introduced another concept called Principal Control Plans.

“These [plans] are the fundamental elements within the new regulations that really tie the management system together for all mines and tunnels,” he says.

The regulations also cover tunnels under construction, “and that is again really important given the growth in the tunnelling industry in New Zealand.”

Forster is proud of the legislation which he says

embraces the best of international standards, to the degree that he believes “other parts of the world would do well to copy what New Zealand’s done.

“New Zealand has moved from being at the back of the queue with many of these issues, but now people are looking quite enviously at what New Zealand has achieved over the past three years, because it really does represent a significant body of work.”

WorkSafe NZ was about halfway through the process of introducing approved codes of practice to support both the Act and the regulations.

The various groups – quarries, alluvial miners, goldminers, drillers, tunnellers, surface and underground miners – had started to gel into a broad group under the Extractives banner.

Forster attributed the success of the changes he had introduced to the support and commitment he had received from the industry.

Taupo dairy farm among those in sale Chris Hutching A large dairy farm near Taupo has been placed on the market in a receivership sale.

The 1235ha farm on Taharua Rd, Rangitaiki 38kms south-east of Taupo carries approximately 2500 cows in two herds.

During the 2014/2015 milking season the farm produced 519,477 kilograms of milk solids.

It was among a group of farms owned by Glengyle Holdings (in receivership), a company associated with Marlborough farmer Philip Woolley.

All except for one are dairy or dairy support farms.

One of the properties is at Robin Hood Bay, Port Underwood in the Marlborough Sounds.

In their initial report, the receivers David Ruscoe and Richard Simpson of Grant Thornton were confident that ASB’s debt of $29 million would be satisfied.

But the report was written a year ago before the downturn in dairy fortunes.

The farms include the 524ha Robin Hood Bay, 654ha Hillersden in Wairau Valley, 302ha Glengyle, 510ha Matakitaki near Nelson, 331ha Hunter Rd Tuamarina, 865ha Glenmae.

Mr Woolley has featured in several court cases for a variety of offences involving breaching resource consents.

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Waiheke Library a winner....

Waiheke Pataka Korero/Waiheke Library has taken out the top prize in the 2015 NZ Wood-Resene Timber Design Awards as the Resene Overall Supreme Award winner. It also won the Commercial Architectural Excellence Award. Auckland Libraries Corrina Meikle, service delivery

Ngai Tahu housing project - PAGE 2

Organics trial trial a first - PAGE 3

manager for Auckland Libraries, says the focus on integrating natural materials, primarily wood, into the design was the result of a desire for the building to reference and complement the island environment.

See story page 12

A2 milk gaining traction - PAGE 3

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Business North

Ngai Tahu in housing project Hugh de Lacy Christchurch-based Ngai Tahu has announced its arrival in the Auckland property market with a $113 million housing project in partnership with the New Zealand Superannuation Fund and local investor New Ground Capital (NGC).

Ngai Tahu, the iwi-based company whose previous diversified investments were previously nearly all in the South Island, recently opened up an Auckland office to take advantage of the booming residential property market.

NGC was launched in 2014 to pursue previously untapped areas of demand for capital in unlisted property and social enterprises, as well as managed investments in private equity.

The company that year became the first in the country to gain a managed investment scheme licence under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013, and said it would focus on small and medium-sized enterprises.

The three investors are planning a 200-home development on former Defence Force land at Hobsonville point, Auckland.

Ngai Tahu and the Super Fund will each invest 48% of the required capital, with NGC contributing 4%. Work is expected to start mid-year on the 1.95 hectare block that was bought from the Hobsonville Land Company, a subsidiary of state-owned Housing NZ. The development will include terraced, standalone units and apartments, and about half of them will be priced at or below the current Auckland median house price of $550,000.

Most of the houses will be sold as they are completed, but the investors intend keeping fifty of them as long-term rentals on leases ranging from three to seven years.

Rents will be market-related and are expected to range between $450 and $750 a week.

Super Fund chief executive Matt Whineray said Ngai Tahu held similar values to its own and “our collective scale has been integral to the feasibility of this investment”.

The corner site has two showrooms for Audi and Volkswagen vehicles separated by a cafe.

New Hamilton East dealerships ready for Volkswagen, Audi Ebbett Group’s Hamilton East Volkswagen and Audi dealerships are now complete, offering a new urban high street retail experience.

The site, on the corner of Clyde and Grey Street, has two showrooms for Audi and Volkswagen vehicles separated by an independent café.

Ebbett Dealership Principal Richard van den Engel says they wanted to give customers a unique experience that felt like an urban high street environment.

“Our cars are on display behind huge windows and are right there on the street front as people walk by the showroom.

“Customers are already telling us how much they’re enjoying our new space, as well as the café, which is being used by customers and locals just looking for a great coffee,” says van den Engel.

The modern showrooms were designed by Chow Hill lead architect Brian Rastrick with input from the Ebbett Group with Ebbett Volkswagen on Grey Street and Ebbett Audi on Clyde Street.

The Volkswagen showroom was designed in a light, natural timber to create an informal and relaxed atmosphere. In contrast, the Audi showroom boasts a pseudo racetrack environment with Audis parked in a starting grid formation.

Volkswagen General Manager, Tom Ruddenklau, says, “It’s a big year for Volkswagen and we’re delighted to have the new dealership in Hamilton East. We think it will be a drawcard for customers and greatly showcase the vehicles we have on offer this year, including the new Passat Alltrack and the Golf R Wagon.”

According to Audi General Manager, Dean Sheed, “Audi’s core brand values of sportiness, sophistication and progressiveness are perfectly reflected in the new dealership, more than meeting customer expectations by providing the perfect environment to view and try the latest vehicle models and catch up on current Audi news and events.” Osten café, which translates to East in German, features wide oak panels and dark concrete floors where customers are able to enjoy lunch while waiting for their cars to be serviced or repaired in the workshop.

The café serves gourmet cabinet food including salad boxes to takeaway or eat in, as well as Allpress coffee. Locals can access the café without having to walk through the showrooms.

Second hand vehicles are now located beside each showroom, along with off-street customer parking.

Celebrating engineering heritage Jo Bailey IPENZ is harnessing the latest technology to showcase some of New Zealand’s outstanding engineering heritage.

This year the organisation launched the IPENZ Engineering Tours app, which helps people navigate self-guided tours of the Auckland Waterfront and Wellington City. The app provides maps, directions, information and illustrations that people can refer to during their walk, providing background to a range of engineering landmarks, such as the Auckland Harbour Bridge, Wellington’s Cable Car, and Lambton Quay.

“It is an exciting project. We plan to add more tours to the app, with Dunedin likely to go ahead next year and Christchurch hopefully soon after,” says IPENZ heritage advisor, Karen Astwood.

The initiative is just one of the ways the IPENZ Heritage division preserves New Zealand’s engineering legacy.

A nationwide network of engineers and engineering and industrial heritage enthusiasts from various regional ‘chapters’ voluntarily contribute stories to the IPENZ Heritage website, which records biographies of prominent engineers, and stories about key projects and achievements.

Karen is responsible for collating this information at IPENZ’s Wellington office and posting it to the website, as well as researching and writing about additional people and projects.

“Our vision is to ensure New Zealand’s engineering achievements are recognised and celebrated.”

All sectors of engineering are covered by the initiative, from building and construction, electrical power, rail, transport and infrastructure; to natural hazard protection, manufacturing and industrial processing and communications.

Information about everything from A and J Price Limited in Thames, one of New Zealand’s oldest machinery making companies; to the West Coast’s Denniston Incline, which locals called the eighth wonder of the world, can be found on the site.

Karen says she is in the process of closing the standalone IPENZ Heritage website over the next few months, as the information is gradually being transferred across to the heritage section of the new IPENZ website (ipenz.nz).

One of the first sections to have been transferred is the Heritage Register, which was established to recognise engineering achievements of outstanding or special heritage significance.

“These items are the crème of the crop, and go through a strict heritage assessment process before being added to the list. There are currently 16 items on the list and we are always on the lookout for new ones to ensure we are profiling the very best of this country’s engineering heritage,” says Karen.

Register items include places like the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, now famous as the base for AJ Hackett Bungy near Queenstown.

One of the latest projects to be added to the

Heritage Register was the Musick Memorial Radio Station in Howick, Auckland, constructed between 1939 and 1942 to provide telecommunication support to enable long distance air travel to New Zealand.

It was named in honour of Pan American Airlines pilot, Captain Edwin Musick (1894 to 1938) who died, along with his crew during the first commercial flight from New Zealand to the USA in January 1938.

The beginnings of IPENZ Heritage go back to the 1980’s in Christchurch when a small group of people started to record information about New Zealand engineers and projects.

“Our volunteers nationwide continue to do a fantastic job collating information. We also receive emails from other people keen to contribute items to the site, or who have read one of our stories and want to provide us with extra information.”

Capturing the voices of engineers who have been involved in key projects in New Zealand is another focus, she says.

“As well as detailing projects, it makes sense to celebrate the achievements of the engineers who were involved with them. Part of the heritage programme is to capture as many of these voices through oral history as we can.”

Visit ipenz.nz to learn more about the IPENZ Engineering Tours app; Engineering Heritage Register; details of the latest Australasian Engineering Heritage Conference; and to read about key projects.

Business North

NEWS »

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Organics trial an Australasia first Karen Phelps BioGro has just launched a trial Organic Assurance programme aimed at the hospitality sector, which will be the first of its kind in Australasia, says BioGro CEO Donald Nordeng.

The programme, which is based on the current BioGro programme for retailers, aims to give consumers more information and confidence by providing an independent endorsement for hospitality businesses using organic produce on an everyday basis.

“Right now there is no legislation around organic claims from restaurants,” explains Donald.

“This programme, which will offer three organic award levels: bronze, silver and gold, will appraise businesses currently using organic produce. In turn, the programme will encourage restaurants, caterers, cafes, spas and other hospitality services to use more organic produce.”

The programme is starting with a six-month trial involving four businesses. Each business will provide regular updates, documenting and demonstrating the realities of delivering organic produce to consumers through their hospitality services.

“The trialists will record the proportion of raw materials used that are organic. The proportion

will be measured by cost or weight and the three ‘organic levels’ (bronze, silver and gold) will be awarded based on percentage rages: 30-60 percent, 60-90% and 90%-100%, respectively.

“After the trial, BioGro will then look for strategic partners in the hospitality sector to spread the programme once it is developed,” explains Donald.

Donald says that BioGro hopes that the programme will successfully link growers and suppliers along the organic chain of custody.

Smaller growers will be provided with a muchneeded platform to supply organic produce.

“BioGro believes the Organic Assurance programme will encourage social change amongst New Zealanders, especially surrounding attitudes towards organic production.

“Another important aim of the programme is to enable and encourage more organic growers to supply New Zealand’s domestic market.”

Another recent development is the introduction of BioGro’s Registered Products programme for wine additions, which officially kicked off in September in preparation for the upcoming 2016 vintage. Donald says that the programme is aimed at manufacturers and suppliers of wine additions to assist them in supplying and supporting New Zealand’s rising organic wine movement.

“In 2015, the number of certified organic vineyards topped 165, compared to just 20 in 2007.

“After the trial BioGro will then look for strategic partners in the hospitality sector to spread the programme once it is developed.”

“This year 5.4% of all viticulture land in New Zealand became certified organic and 12.5% of winegrowers have at least one certified organic vineyard.

“There are currently 69 certified organic wineries under organic management.

“The Registered Products programme is an affordable, sustainable and easy way for suppliers to provide wineries with products that are compliant with organic winemaking requirements.”

BioGro has also launched two other services recently to help grow the organics industry in New Zealand.

One is offering initial contact meetings, where a BioGro representative walks the customer through the certification process, and also a pre-assessment service aimed at secondary

processors who want to send in their products for preliminary testing to see if it has a good chance of being certified organic before they go through the full certification process.

BioGro is New Zealand’s largest and bestknown certifier for organic produce and products.

BioGro is owned by the New Zealand Biological Producers and Consumers Society, a registered not-for-profit organisation. BioGro currently certifies and accredits over 600 producers, farmers and manufacturers across New Zealand and the Pacific.

“The BioGro logo guarantees that a product is made without animal testing, genetic modification and the routine use of synthetic pesticides. It is the mark of a genuine organic product.”

Donald, who was previously chief executive of Daabon Organic and Ecocert Japan, says demand for organic products is growing worldwide.

While New Zealand is presently an unregulated market from a government level, this is not the case in other countries in the world.

He says BioGro certification is internationally recognised and accredited and BioGro is assisting New Zealand producers to meet international organic regulations in key export markets including Europe, Canada, the US and parts of Asia. “With BioGro certification, New Zealand producers can access international markets and tap into the growing consumer demand for organic produce.”

NZ ‘missing out’ on A2 success New test for Hugh de Lacy The A2 milk company’s quadrupling in size last year to become bigger than Trade Me and twice the size of The Warehouse suggests the New Zealand dairy industry has missed the biggest product differentiation opportunity it’s ever likely to encounter.

That’s the opinion of former Lincoln University agribusiness professor Keith Woodford who wrote the book on the perceived health advantages of A2 over standard A1 milk, “The Devil in the Milk,” which are the basis of The a2 Milk Company’s (ATM’s) rapid global expansion.

A2 milk does not have the proteins in it that scientific studies suggest A1 milk developed from a genetic aberration in European cows, and which are alleged to cause serious health problems ranging from diabetes to heart disease in some people.

The emerging science on the subject has so far supported, but not yet proved the A2 theory, but rapidly increasing numbers of consumers are voting for it with their wallets.

And according to Woodford, the New Zealand dairy giant Fonterra has missed the bus on this development, while the other big co-operative, Westland Milk Products, made a mistake in getting off the bus after earlier boarding it.

ATM is a New Zealand company dually listed here and in Australia, and it’s been attracting huge institutional and private investment on the strength of its success there and in the Chinese baby formula market.

Between May and December last year the company’s shares quadrupled in value to $NZ1.7 billion, later easing back but still three times higher than 12 months earlier.

The spectacular rise has mostly been driven

by Australian institutional investors, but towards the end of the year small investors started joining the bandwagon.

Despite ATM products costing twice as much as A1 ones, it was reported in September that 28% of pregnant Australian women had switched to locally sourced A2 milk, before going on to use ATM’s Platinum infant formula which is produced in Canterbury by the privately owned Synlait company.

Choosing the best payroll option IPayroll systems are a vital component of any business but it can often be difficult for businesses to identify the best solution to suit their particular needs, says Doug Jopling, CEO of IMS Payroll.

“The number of options in the marketplace for payroll solutions is growing but there are some simple rules which a company can apply to ensure they choose the right solution to meet their needs,” he says.

Firstly Doug advises choosing a company that has been providing payroll solutions in New Zealand for a long time as businesses need a provider that is familiar with both the complex payroll system in New Zealand and employer obligations as well as offer good backup and support.

Next he says businesses should consider what the key requirements are for the payroll system and ensure that the solution chosen can cater for those requirements.

For example how many employees do you have? Do you want to be able to work on the go, from any device or just from your desktop PC in the

office? Do you want your payroll software to talk to your accounting software? These are just some of the questions that need to be considered,” says Doug.

Thirdly he advises that the system is configurable to the individual needs of the business and functionality is able can be turned on and off as required to customise the solution to suit the particular requirements of the business.

“A system should be flexible and configurable as every business is unique. For smaller companies ease of use may be the most important aspect while other companies may require the payroll solution to integrate with time clock/roster systems, financial systems or full HR systems.

“That’s why IMS Payroll offers integration with most accounting and time and attendance systems available in New Zealand.”

Doug says businesses should choose a payroll solution that can grow with the business, which means less disruption in the long term and saves time and money, as staff do not need to retrain.

Synlait has only 35 New Zealand farmers – out of 11,000 nationwide - supplying A2 milk, for which they get a 15c/kg premium over A1.

Woodford says most of the benefits from the snowballing success are going where both the milk and the investment have mostly come from, overseas, and New Zealand farmers are missing out.

What has so far protected ATM’s expansion has been an American patent on the science, but it ran out last year.

ATM shared ownership of the patent 50-50 with Fonterra, but the big company did nothing with it, and now anyone can leap into the market in direct competition with ATM, Woodford says.

It would take about ten years to convert the entire New Zealand herd to A2 – about a third are already A2 producers – and had Westland persisted and Fonterra adopted it, they would now enjoy a major advantage over competitive start-ups.

Woodford said the science supporting the A2 theory has “become a river,” and he is urging the New Zealand dairy industry to finally exploit the opportunity which its own scientists identified.

manuka honey

Marketers of ordinary honey trying to exploit the rising demand and market premium for manuka honey are going to have their work cut out now that researchers have developed a new test.

Scientists from the Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association (UMFHA), Analytica Laboratories and the marketing company Comvita have collaborated to produce a test to authenticate the purity of the product, which is believed to have anti-bacterial properties.

New Zealand honey last year generated around $250m in export returns, a rise of 34% on the previous year, and double the value of 2012 exports.

Manuka honey enjoys a substantial premium in the United Kingdom and Chinese markets, but previous authenticity tests were limited by the fact that bees will take pollen from any flower and do not collect one variety exclusively.

But alongside the sensory tests of colour, taste and viscosity, the scientists have recently developed one that identifies manuka’s unique chemical markers.

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FINANCIAL SERVICES » Kiwi Advisers

Business advice made easy Karen Phelps A new website called www.theaccalternative.co.nz is aiming to provide an easy way for business owners to find out how they could save money on their insurance as well as get better protection.

Set up by Kiwi Advisers, the website will allow people to answer a few simple questions then will show them an estimate of the potential savings they could make, says Dave La Pere, owner of Kiwi Advisers.

He says a lot of business owners or self employed people don’t know how to choose the correct type and level of ACC cover to suit their needs and that getting it wrong is a real financial risk. “For example statistics tell us that a person is 260% more likely to need to claim cover for an illness compared with an accident. And ACC only covers people in the event of an accident preventing them from working. Ill health and lack of health insurance is one of the four main causes of people going bankrupt,” explains Dave.

An ex builder, Dave set up Kiwi Advisers in January 2014, after extensive experience dealing with ACC related matters in the insurance industry and as a self employed builder. He says this has given him a sound understanding of the system from both sides of the equation – business owner and insurance broker.

This is why he has chosen to specialise in ACC advice in his business as well as advice and information on a range of other financial products such as risk insurance and Kiwi Saver.

He points out that Kiwi Advisers is an independent brokerage: “Kiwi Advisers has agencies with most of the major Insurance companies in New Zealand but we are not tied to any. This means we don’t work for the insurance companies, we work for the client as we have no vested interest in matching them with a particular product or service,” he explains.

Kiwi Advisers works similar to a mortgage broker in that the service is free to the client.

Dave is a Registered Financial Adviser and Kiwi Advisers is a member of the New Zealand Financial Services Group. He says many businesses could be paying too much for ACC. “ACC has new Industry Classifications and plans

DEVELOPMENT » Albany Stadium Swimming Pool

Long wait for new Albany pool nearly over Karen Phelps

Dave La Pere that could bring a client’s ACC levies down. If they are a tradesman or self-employed, they’re probably paying too much. We help to legally reduce a client’s ACC Levies and also put in place better insurance protection,” he says.

Dave suggests that it is best to minimize risk by balancing ACC and insurance policies. He says that often the result is that a client doesn’t have to pay any more than they already are but that they get better protection.

“For example a client may be paying too much to ACC. By helping them to reduce their premiums the extra cash they save can be used to purchase income protection insurance to also cover them in the event of illness.”

He says a big part of his role is educating clients. He hopes the new website he has set up will help people about the risks they are currently exposed to and how to mitigate these.

“Income protection is a new concept to a lot of people. But everyone ensures their houses are insured but the ability to earn an income is so much more valuable and this is often left uninsured.

My job is to help educate the market to show them how they can increase their levels of cover to suit their requirements and protect their most important asset – themselves.”

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Business North

• Leaky Homes and Re-Clads • Bungalow and Villa Restoration • ALTERATIONS & RENOVATIONS • ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING WORK • PAINTING & WALLBOARD STOPPING • Decks, Fences, Retaining Walls Etc

A new recreational swimming pool facility, which has been in the pipeline for nearly two decades, is under construction in Auckland.

According to the Auckland Council, the Albany Stadium Swimming Pool is being developed to cater to the growing population in the North Auckland area and is a different offering to other pools in Auckland Council’s leisure network, focusing on fun and recreation.

Situated near QBE Stadium the facility will cater for the growing population in the North Auckland area and will include a zero depth splash pad for toddlers with splash and spray water toys, a shallow kids’ pools with slides, water cannons and a large play structure for kids to develop confidence in the water.

The facility will also include a leisure pool aimed at older children and adults which can be set up for an array of water activities and structured lane swimming and will have a permanent climbing wall in the deep end.

Other facilities include spa and sauna, a separate pool that can host classes like aqua aerobics, fitness and group exercise area and a room available for party hire The project has been designed by a consortium led by Creative Spaces and is being constructed by Naylor Love Construction.

Les Honeyfield, Naylor Love project manager, says that the company tendered the project in late 2014 and started construction in January 2015.

Problematic ground resulted in a six month delay on original projections as extensive additional groundworks were required.

Approximately 5000 cubic metres of soil was

excavated from the site after a gully/valley was discovered, which had been filled in some time ago, but with material unsuited to the new construction on the site. In total 186 piles were driven 14 metres into the ground to support a metal raft constructed to give a stable building platform for the facility.

Naylor Love has around 30 people on site each day, which will increase to 50-80 at the project peak. At present the company is in the process of installing floor slabs and panels.

“It’s a complex design to physically construct. There is a huge amount of services work involved including water reticulation and mechanical services. Inside requires a high degree of accuracy and level of finish.”

Due to the unforeseen ground conditions storage of building materials already preordered has been an additional complication.

“Some materials were shipped from overseas and have had to be stored securely for months. Fortunately we have a large site,” says Les. Naylor Love is one of the largest national construction companies in New Zealand with approximately 300 staff nationwide spread over five regional divisions.

The company has been building in New Zealand for more than 100 years.

Les says that this has allowed the company to build long-term relationships with clients.

“Combined with a continuous improvement policy as we strive to deliver measurably the best construction services for our clients Naylor Love brings a unique, collaborative approach to construction in New Zealand,” he says.

Although Naylor Love has constructed a number of swimming pool complexes in the South Island including Dudley Park Aquatic Centre, Rangiora and the Alpine Aqualand,

“It’s a complex design to physically construct. There is a huge amount of services work involved including water reticulation and mechanical services. Inside requires a high degree of accuracy and level of finish.”

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DEVELOPMENT 禄 Albany Stadium Swimming Pool

The Albany Stadium Swimming Pool is being developed to cater to the growing population in the North Auckland area.

Queenstown, which won the NZRMB national supreme award for commercial projects in 2009, this is the first in the North Island.

The company also completed the

$14m Selwyn Aquatic Centre in Rolleston, Christchurch. The Albany Stadium Swimming Pool is programmed for completion at the end of October 2016.

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DEVELOPMENT » Union Green

Business North

Terrace homes and apartments are dressed in vegetation including mature jacaranda and karaka trees, large-scale green walls and native shrubbery across every floor.

Union Green breaking new ground Karen Phelps Myland Partners is aiming to set a new precedent for sophisticated urban living with the development of its brand new residential community on Auckland’s Union Street, which offers a unique combination of location, lifestyle and cutting-edge design.

Myland Partners has stated that its goal has been to create the ultimate in leafy suburb living in the inner city. The project comprises terrace homes and apartments situated around The Green, a conceptual parkland that aims to create a natural space for rest, relaxation, interaction and connection for residents.

Terrace homes and apartments are dressed in vegetation including mature jacaranda and karaka trees, large-scale green walls and native shrubbery across every floor. Also included in the development is The Rise; a distinctive tower fringed in greenery.

To bring Union Green to life, Myland Partners handpicked the best of Auckland’s property and design gurus using their years of expertise in creating some of New Zealand’s most-loved and celebrated buildings.

Internationally renowned architects Fearon Hay are the master planners behind Union Green and

Union Green is part of the ever-growing Auckland City Master Plan and an initiative to re-invent the central business district into a better area for work, relaxation and play. worked together with architects Peddle Thorp. The team also included landscapers Natural Habitats and interior designer Amelia Holmes.

Situated on a northerly aspect for all day sun, the apartments will also receive views of the Waitemata Harbour and iconic Auckland landmarks, the Harbour Bridge and Rangitoto Island. Union Green will offer two types of residences.

The Rise, the development’s north-facing apartment tower, which has been optimised to provide sightlines over Ponsonby’s western ridge, to the Waitemata and out over the city, offers options of studio, one or two bedrooms or two bedrooms plus a study.

The Terraces, two level homes that look out onto The Green, have glass at both ends resulting in a light and airy feel. Buyers can choose between north, central, west or garden locations.

All have private entrances and private gardens with outlooks over shared spaces and one, two, or three bedroom layouts are offered including

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some with the option of a study. Apartments in the development range in price from $400,000 to $900,000 and terrace homes from $650,000 to $1,200,000.

Myland Partners is a real estate investment firm with a primary specialisation in the acquisition, management, development and exit of real estate projects within Australasia.

Through Myland Partners’ projects division, the company brings direct access to real property within Australasia, with a focus on residential land and buildings. The company’s investment management division, Myland Capital Partners, provides acquisition, asset and funds management services for real estate based private equity funds. The company’s reach extends throughout Australasia and South East Asia with offices in Auckland, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta.

In New Zealand Myland Partners has developed a number of prominent and celebrated buildings and amenities throughout the country.

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Over the years the company has won several prestigious awards including the New Zealand Institute of Architects Awards in 2006 and 2010, the Resene Local Awards for Architecture, the YBE 2005 Award and the NZIA 2003 Wellington Urban Design Award. Other current projects include Scott Point in Hobsonville, Auckland and Kingfisher at Lake Taupo.

Myland Parks has indicated that Union Green is part of the ever-growing Auckland City Master Plan and an initiative to re-invent the central business district into a better area for work, relaxation and play.

The company says that the design-led vision aims to create the ultimate liveable city for Aucklanders and meet the needs of a growing and changing residential population.

The development is fully subscribed with construction commencing in January and a completion date of November 2017 in sight.

Andrew from Peddle Thorp believes the project will become an iconic Auckland landmark: “Union Green is one of those benchmark Auckland projects, which raises the bar for developments to follow and acts as a catalyst for change. It will be a truly unique and vibrant residential community, which will set a new level for urban living in Auckland.”

Good design and ‘buildability’ Designing buildings that can be built well is a key focus for Auckland architectural firm Peddlethorp. It’s a trait that can be seen to good effect in the company’s recent work on the Union Green residential community in Auckland.

Superbly located on a stunning inner city site with harbour views across Freemans Bay, Victoria Park and Wynyard Quarter, the project comprises terrace homes and apartments situated around The Green; a conceptual parkland that creates a natural space for rest, relaxation, interaction and connection.

The natural theme continues with terrace homes and apartment dressed in vegetation.

Also included in the development is The Rise; a distinctive tower fringed in greenery, meaning that Union Green is set to become one of Auckland’s iconic developments, says Andrew Kissell from Peddlethorp.

“Union Green is one of those benchmark Auckland projects, which raises the bar for developments to follow and acts as a catalyst for change. It will be a truly unique and vibrant residential community, which will set a new level for urban living in Auckland,” he says.

Peddlethorp worked on the project with master planners Fearon Grey, who the company had worked with before.

Andrew says that Peddlethorp brought its extensive experience in large commercial developments and apartment projects to the team, which also included landscapers Natural Habitats and interior designer Amelia Holmes.

Established in New Zealand in 1968, Peddlethorp specialises in commercial architecture and, in particular, in good design combined with buildability. Andrew says that the firm’s core strength is in the quality and depth of design and detailing, which allows the most complex and creative ideas to be brought to life such as the Union Green project.

“We carefully consider our projects from first briefing to completion, combining flair and value in effective design solutions for clients.

We also embrace the opportunity to collaborate

Peddlethorp directors, from left, Richard Goldie, Terrence Barnes, and Brad Luke. with other industry professionals, drawing on unique skills and talents for the benefit of the project,” he says.

A key aspect of achieving this is utilizing the latest technology: “We utilise the latest CAD systems to produce accurate, coordinated and realistic Building Information Models (BIM) which provide a valuable resource throughout the project, from concept design to practical completion and

beyond into facility management if required. We have invested significantly in developing or own in-house systems to further maximise the potential of these systems. Design phases are shortened and increased interdisciplinary efficiency results from a collaborative shared team BIM model.

Other benefits are reduced on-site costs and construction variations due to a more thoroughly resolved and integrated design.”

While architects can often impose their own style on buildings peddlethorp takes a different approach, he says: “We design to the brief. A client once said that they can’t walk down the street and identify one of our buildings by the style. We take great pride in this fact. We come to each project with a fresh viewpoint and design primarily to meet the client’s needs.”

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DEVELOPMENT » Middlebrook / Papamoa Beach Resort

Business North

Middlebrook expands Conference venue with Nolan Quarters an added bonus Karen Phelps Another two stages of Middlebrook have just been released to the market. Stage 3, comprises 29 lots and Stage 4, called Nolan Quarters, offers 16 house and land packages to the market.

According to director of Maniaroa Properties, Mark Mayston, Nolan Quarters has been specifically developed for clients seeking community style living and to encourage social interaction between the residents.

Two and three-bedroom packages are available.

The construction of two show homes has just begun: a 150 m², three-bedroom and a 140 m², two-bedroom home, both brick and tile with cedar weatherboard details.

The homes both offer two bathrooms and spacious kitchen and dining/lounge areas. They also include generous outdoor patios, driveways in exposed aggregate concrete and double garages.

After being released to the market at the beginning of November a number of the homes in Nolan Quarters have already sold and construction has already commenced on the first home.

Mark says that because the house and land packages are all predetermined in terms of size and materials with building consents already obtained, they can be constructed quickly once purchased.

“People could move into their new home in as little as 14 to 16 weeks. It’s a good option for the target market, which is retired people and empty nesters, because they have often sold a property and want to move quickly,” says Mark.

Middlebrook offers a range of section sizes from 520sqm – 1000sqm. The development is surrounded by native reserve areas and bounded to the north and south by a stream and established trees giving it a country feel with the convenience of city living, says Mark.

Katikati is located close by and offers diverse cultural experiences, such as Katikati’s art festivals, twilight concerts in the park, and the well known Haiku Walkway.

Middlebrook is also situated close to the coast – only 20 minutes to the surf at Waihi Beach and less than an hour from Mount Maunganui.

Middlebrook has also been popular as it is surrounded by outdoor pursuit opportunities such as the Pacifica Golf Course and Kaimai bush walks, as well as fishing and water sports, says Mark.

Maniaroa Properties is owned by the Mayston family who have owned the Middlebrook land since 1993 and previously operated it as a kiwifruit orchard.

Mark says that the family has sought to invest in orchards with future residential development potential.

The Middlebrook development commenced in 2008. Stages one and two, comprising a total of 70 lots, were released the market in 2010 and have now been sold. Maniaroa Properties undertakes every aspect of the development, contracting Classic Builders to complete the construction of the homes.

Customers are offered a design and build option specifically designed to suit their section. Maniaroa Properties also builds spec homes for sale, which Mark says have proved popular.

The company is about to start building a 200sqm four-bedroom, two-bathroom spec home on a 628sqm site. The home is clad in brick with a steel tile roof.

Mark says a real focus has been placed on ensuring the development is integrated into the wider community in terms of bus routes etc. A bus to Katikati drives right past Middlebrook.

“Katikati has an abundance to offer. It has excellent primary and secondary schooling, and a friendly community as well as an outdoor lifestyle.

Katikati is a nice rural town that is growing quickly with access to plenty of amenities such as a medical centre and supermarkets.

“Tauranga is only a 20 minute drive away and as both Katikati and Tauranga grow in size that distance is only going to reduce further making Middlebrook a very desirable and convenient location.”

at Papamoa Beach Sue Russell Demand for a dedicated conference venue at Papamoa Beach has prompted Papamoa Beach Resort to meet the need as well as create a more diverse income stream for the business.

Since The Deck at Papamoa Beach opened nearly a year ago the venue has proved popular, says Papamoa Beach Resort marketing manager Nikita Fraser.

“When we built the villas here in the nineties everyone thought we were crazy as we were a camping ground.

“But the villas have proved really popular.

It’s been the same with the conference centre. It’s helped us to keep business steady over winter,” she says.

The room can be used as one large space or sectioned off as required into break out areas. Wifi is included and audiovisual presentation equipment is available.

Full conference catering can be supplied as well as organisation of local trips and tours for team-building activities.

With the adjoining accommodation facilities including beachfront and garden villas, three bedroom baches, holiday units, cabins and the camping ground, it

“The feedback we have had is that it helps people to focus more as they can really get away from things here.” means Papamoa Beach Resort can offer a complete package to guests, says Nikita.

“The feedback we have had is that it helps people to focus more as they can really get away from things here. They can go for a run or walk on the beach in breaks and relax as well as work.”

She says that The Deck at Papamoa Beach has also had a spin off effect for the resort’s accommodation with people sometimes booking to spend their holidays there after attending an event at the conference centre.

Papamoa Beach Resort had its beginnings in the mid sixties when Gordon and Thelma Crosby responded to an advertisement to lease what was then the Papamoa Holiday Camp and took on the lease of the 16 site camping ground.

In 1986 their son Bruce and his wife

“It’s a good option for the target market, which is retired people and empty nesters, because they have often sold a property and want to move quickly.”

The new 313sqm facility is the largest conference facility in Papamoa and hosts conferences, meetings, training seminars, team building, Christmas parties and evening events.

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DEVELOPMENT » Papamoa Beach Resort

Business North

|9

The Papamoa Beach Resort now includes 250 camping sites and 37 recently refurbished accommodation units.

Donna purchased the business adding cabins, units and luxury villas.

Bruce and Donna’s daughter Rebecca now runs Papamoa Beach Resort for her parents.

The 6.5ha property now includes 250 camping sites and 37 recently refurbished accommodation units.

The Baches, three bedroom units, are the latest venture, built when the family saw a need to accommodate larger groups and families.

They opened in February 2015 and have proved popular with groups forward booking for the next couple of years, says Nikita.

More recently Papamoa Beach Resort has also been hosting weddings.

The ceremony is held on the beachfront, accommodation is provided and the resort works in with a local restaurant and function centre next door, BlueBiyou, which hosts the reception.

Papamoa Beach Resort has strong

forward bookings for its wedding dates.

Nikita says the company’s continued expansion into additional markets is one of the keys to the success of the business.

“We are an innovative, forward thinking company and have been for the last 50 years. We will continue to look for exciting new market segments.”

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10 |

DEVELOPMENT » Hugh Green Group

Business North

Donegal Glen subdivision popular Karen Phelps Stage 8 of Donegal Glen is due for release in early 2016.

The next stage of the subdivision, located off Thomas Road in Flat Bush, Manukau, Auckland, will comprise approximately 73 sections ranging in size from 350-450sqm.

Brigid Sullivan, sales and marketing manager for the developer Hugh Green Group, says the sections will be sold to builders as well as direct to homeowners. She says the previous releases of the subdivision have proved popular. Stage 1 in Donegal Glen was released in December 2011 and since then the company has sold a further six stages consisting of more than 420 sections.

Located in south east Auckland on 1700ha, the development and transformation of Flat Bush is a collaboration between Auckland Council, the Howick Local Board and partners. According to the Auckland Council website, Flat Bush as a town is one of New Zealand’s largest and most comprehensively planned towns.

The council’s aim is to set a high standard of urban design and a large number of initiatives have been put in place to improve the public realm including a large existing and proposed network of shared footpaths and cycleways. The Flat Bush town development includes five neighbourhood centres and has a strong focus on open space and environmental sustainability. By 2025, it is expected that Flat Bush will be home to at least 36,000 people. Brigid says Hugh Green Group is excited that Donegal Glen will be a part of the fast growing town.

Donegal Glen is in the close vicinity of Barry Curtis Park and the planned Ormiston town centre with walkways that connect the subdivision to Murphy’s Bush, which borders Donegal Glen. The subdivision is also zoned for a variety of schools including Edukids Childcare Centre, Mission

Located in south east Auckland on 1700ha, Donegal Glen and the transformation of Flat Bush is a collaboration between Auckland Council, the Howick Local Board and partners.

Heights Junior College, Sancta Maria College and Ormiston Senior College. Coupled with the fact that Donegal Glen has sensible covenants in order to protect the purchaser’s investment, the environment and maintain a quality subdivision, Brigid expects Stage 8 to sell quickly.

A New Zealand-owned company Hugh Green Group has a long history after being established in 1955 by Irishman Hugh Green. The fifth of eight

children born in County Donegal, Ireland, Hugh left school at the age of 12 because of hard times and started droving and dealing in livestock at cattle fairs. After a short time in Scotland, England and then Australia, Hugh arrived in New Zealand where he eventually started his company. Today, the Hugh Green Group is comprised of a number of privately owned companies with significant interests in a number of public companies such as

Hellaby Holdings Ltd and Turners Ltd, as well as owning large areas of residential land in the greater Auckland region and substantial tracts of farmland in the Auckland and Waikato regions.

Part of the success of Hugh Green Group over the years could possibly be put down to the company philosophy of giving something back to the community coupled with its ability to evolve with the times.

Well-equipped to work Dempsey Wood is well equipped to manage and carry out civil works on residential and commercial/industrial land development and public infrastructure projects throughout the greater Auckland region.

Established by company managing director, Conal Dempsey, in 1993, the New Zealand owned and operated civil contracting company employs 250 people and uses this in-house expertise to devise innovative, value-engineered solutions that benefit their clients.

One client to benefit from Dempsey Wood’s collaborative and customerfocused approach is Hugh Green Group.

They have used Dempsey Wood on several of their residential subdivisions, including Donegal Stud and Point View Park in Flat Bush, as well as other projects across the Auckland Region.

“Our in-house earthworks fleet is optimised to suit the particular challenges of Auckland’s geography, geology and marginal weather conditions allowing us to shift well over one million cubic metres per annum,” says Dempsey Wood, commercial director, Scott Garrett.

Although earthworks is a core part of the business, Dempsey Wood’s services include early contractor involvement, drainage, water, retaining walls, environmental works, structural construction, utility services, footpaths, kerbing and more.

The company also has a roading division that can handle everything from

shoulder widening and the narrow roads associated with today’s subdivisions through streetscape and shared spaces – delivering quality living spaces that communities can be proud of for years to come.

As people and the community play a key role in the company’s success, Dempsey Wood puts health and safety for both its own personnel and the public at the top of its priorities.

“We have a constant focus on improvement and utilising technology to not only complete projects faster and better but also to keep our people safe because at the end of the day our business is all about people,” says Scott Garrett.

“Our genuine commitment towards best practice and going the extra mile to deliver exceptional outcomes for our customers is why we consistently achieve targets on every project we undertake – be it a residential subdivision, commercial or industrial development or public infrastructure works project.”

Dempsey Wood is pleased to support various community charities, and the company’s annual cricket day last year raised over $15,000 for South Auckland’s Totara Hospice, an amount Hugh Green Group generously matched by a further $15,000 donation to this valuable community service. Hugh Green Group carried away the silverware. Dempsey Wood awaits Hugh Green Group’s title defence in 2016.

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Business North

DEVELOPMENT » Hugh Green Group

| 11

The subdivision is also zoned for a variety of schools including Edukids Childcare Centre, Mission Heights Junior College, Sancta Maria College and Ormiston Senior College.

The Hugh Green Foundation was established in 1998 and replacing the Hugh Green Trust which had been operating since 1968. The Hugh Green Foundation is a member of Philanthropy New Zealand and is a supporter of a huge number of local communities, people and charities.

“Hugh had quietly given away a lot of money throughout his life to those less fortunate than himself. The Trust was formed in Hugh’s later years

to formalise his donation process and to encourage other businesses to do the same,” explains Brigid.

She says that in addition to Donegal Glen a current focus for Hugh Green Group is its subdivision in Tauranga called Ballintoy Park, which the company has been developing since 2007.

Around 188 sections have currently been sold and an additional 36 sections have just been released to the market.

While the company is actively involved in the development of residential subdivisions it also owns and develops purpose built industrial warehousing and offices for lease on its industrial land at Wiri. Developments have already been completed for Owens Transport, Thermo King, Cummins Engine Company and UD Trucks.

Other projects which the company has recently completed include a Kidicorp childcare centre

in Flat Bush, the Flat Bush Shops, a Palmers Retail Centre in Pinehill, Albany and the Penske Commercial Vehicles NZ premises. , which had its official opening in November.

The steel portal frame building sits on a 17,460 square metre site on the corners of Langley and Roscommon Roads in Wiri. The new facility consists of a high spec warehouse, workshop and the Penske Commercial Vehicles NZ head office.

Playing an important role CivilPlan Consultants Limited is playing an important role in the structure planning and rezoning of land in the Auckland region.

The company has been involved in the town planning and project management of Flat Bush, as well as offering its expertise in subdivisions in the area such as Donegal Glen for Hugh Green Group where the company assisted in the resource consenting of the various stages of the development.

Based in the heart of Manukau City, CivilPlan Consultants Limited is a new land development and property advisory consultancy, which was started late 2014.

Staff numbers have increased dramatically since the company began with the team now 13 strong.

One of the company directors, Russell Baikie, says that the company has grown rapidly due to a team of enthusiastic professionals who offer considerable experience in planning, designing, consenting and managing the implementation of land development projects.

“We work to an ethic of project delivery and high quality service to valued clients.

We understand client needs and proactively manage our clients’ strategic property interests,” he says.

Services offered by the company include planning and civil engineering advice, feasibility studies, resource consents, strategic and structure planning, plan changes, topographical and land transfer surveying, detailed civil engineering design, environmental engineering design, construction observation, construction

contract management and project management.

Other recent projects include involvement in the development of Pokeno New Town in a civil engineering role as well as town planning and civil engineering roles in developments in Pukekohe, Manukau, Papakura and Massey North.

Russell says that the company is currently progressing many varied and exciting land development projects for its clients. These range from residential subdivisions, some of which are Special Housing Areas, to commercial developments, plan variation requests to rezone land and resource consenting for the private and public sectors.

The company is also working with Hugh Green Group on developments in Hingaia and Red Hills at Massey North.

Russell credits the company’s large workload to its solid client base of established property owners and land developers who are keen to progress their land development projects in a buoyant market with proven professionals.

“Our growing team has a wealth of expertise and experience and we foster a collaborative and supportive office culture.

We love what we do and that translates into a successful end result for our clients.

We believe that we are strategically located in Manukau City to service the rapidly expanding South Auckland to North Waikato regions.

“We are excited to see the growth and opportunities the next year will bring for CivilPlan Consultants as we continue to strengthen our staff base and progress key projects for our valued clients.”

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12 |

DEVELOPMENT » Auckland Council - Waiheke Library

Business North

Top design gong for Waiheke Library Karen Phelps Waiheke Pataka Korero/Waiheke Library has taken out the top prize in the 2015 NZ Wood-Resene Timber Design Awards as the Resene Overall Supreme Award winner. It also won the Commercial Architectural Excellence Award.

According to Corrina Meikle, service delivery manager for Auckland Libraries, the wins have helped confirm the iconic status of the new building on Waiheke Island.

“It gives a sense of pride and affirms a lot of the decisions made around the design and the huge amount of effort that has gone into the project over many years,” she says.

Completed in July 2014, the project, located in Oneroa, was a collaboration between the first Waiheke Local Board and Auckland Council’s Property and Library team to produce the design with Phillip Howard of Architects Pacific Environments NZ. The project was constructed by Gibson O’Connor.

The focus on integrating natural materials, primarily wood, into the design was the result of a desire for the building to reference and complement the island environment, says Corrina. Inspiration for the design was taken from a grove of Pohutukawa trees on the site with the aim being to replicate the feeling of sitting under a Pohutukawa canopy in the interior of the library.

An engineered timber truss system forms the large roof canopy, supported on shaved timber poles exposed as ‘tree trunks’. The ceilings feature perforated plywood panels with leaf shapes backlit with natural light. The design also makes extensive use of sculptured timber battens, made by Waiheke Island resident artist Kazu Nakagawa, on the façade of the building, continuing into the interior space of the building.

Corrina says the choice of timber, particularly on the façade, will help the library to weather naturally and further blend into its natural surroundings.

The building has been designed to incorporate sustainable design principles including natural day lighting, natural air ventilation, passive solar heating, high thermal insulation and double-glazing for winter warmth and rainwater collection for water supply.

The new building and grounds of the new library are enriched by four works of permanent integrated art that Corrina says evoke the island’s distinct stories and character. These include Waiheke Pou Whakara by Chris Bailey (head carver); integrated glass design – Ngaruhora by Lorna Dixon-Rikihana, forty-nine letters by Kazu Nakagawa and The Great Optimism by Bob Stewart. Two of these, Waiheke

The Waiheke Library makes extensive use of sculptured timber battens made by local resident artist Kazu Nakagawa.

Pou Whakara and Ngaruhora, were developed in partnership with Ngati Paoa, mana whenua. The library sits within the Te Huruhi block, where Ngati Paoa ancestors once lived.

Corrina says the new library is a big change from the small 200 square metre previous building.

It is four times bigger than its predecessor and boasts new spaces, upgraded facilities and expanded opening hours. Other features include an internal wooden tree house, upgraded computer area, designated kids’ and teens’ area and a separate study room for quiet reading. The new building has helped to increase the library’s business by about a third, she estimates.

“The library has been years in the planning and is designed to be a major new public space and resource for the island community.

“The public has been very complimentary about the new building and it’s an absolute treat to listen to customers talk about it.

“For example the other day I heard a woman escorting someone around the library and telling them all about it. I then realised the woman didn’t work at the library – she was a local resident who was taking a friend on a personal tour. Witnessing

that kind of pride in the library is very special because Waiheke has a strong sense of local identity so it was important to create a building that belonged to them and we’ve obviously achieved that.”

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“Waiheke has a strong sense of local identity so it was important to create a building that belonged to them and we’ve obviously achieved that.”

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Shaved timber poles support the roof canopy ceilings that feature perforated plywood panels with leaf shapes backlit with natural light.

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Business North

DEVELOPMENT » Auckland Council - Te Oro

| 13

Te Oro inspires community dreams Karen Phelps Jenni Heka, facility manager of Te Oro, a music and arts centre aimed at young people in Glen Innes, Auckland, can hardly believe it when she walks through the doors to arrive at work each day.

“Building a place like this was talked about when I was a teenager kicking around Glen Innes.

It’s been a really community driven project which has taken many years to come to fruition so it’s very exciting,” she says.

The concept of a youth-focused music and arts centre as a priority for the traditionally lower socio economic area of Auckland was first identified in the mid-1990s. With the support of local trust Ka Mau Te Wero and the community consortium MAGIC+, a feasibility

study for the centre was completed in 2010. The Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board carried out detailed planning in 2011 and 2012.

Funding was secured from Auckland Council in 2012, with additional funds provided by the Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board and Lotteries Community Facilities Fund. Architectural practice Archimedia worked with the local community to develop the final building design and Hawkins Group began construction in February 2014.

Since Te Oro officially opened on May 9, 2015, the centre has seen more than 20,000 people walk through its doors to either participate in a class, see a performance or simply to view the building, which has won a number of design awards, most recently taking out the Supreme title at the prestigious Best Design Awards 2015.

The aim of the multi-purpose space,

comprising 1481sqm and catering for up to 394 people, is for young people and the local community to come together to perform, practice and learn the arts, express their creativity and talents and celebrate their cultures.

In a first for Auckland Council, the Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board decided that a governance committee including community and iwi representation would set the direction for Te Oro. Jenni says that the community requested variety so the programmes are flexible and where achievable, will change to respond to requests from the public. Classes are offered free or at low cost.

Jenni says importantly the centre also

provides a pathway for young people who demonstrate real talent to progress into their chosen industry.

“For example, professional theatre company, Massive Company, have run courses here and a couple of the students have been picked up by the company to train with them,” she says.

Jenni credits the local community and the support Te Oro has received as instrumental in the success of realizing the 20-year dream to build the centre. “Te Oro has given young people in the community opportunities to learn and perform and dream about something that hasn’t been available to them previously.”

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14 |

HOUSING » Tauranga Community Housing Trust

Business North

Trust’s work ‘enormously rewarding’ Sue Russell Chris Johnstone has been at the helm of Tauranga’s Community Housing Trust since it formed in 2003, a charitable trust which arose initially and still principally to secure appropriate and affordable housing for clients with disabilities.

Her work and that of the other six staff who run the day-to-day business the trust can at times feel like ‘taking one step forward two steps back’ yet is enormously rewarding for the small but significant achievements gained.

“Tauranga has one of the most significant affordable housing shortages of anywhere in New Zealand. Looking back on our journey with the objectives and visions we set for ourselves, I can say that affordability is considerably worse than it was 10 years ago and the environment we operate in is very, very challenging,” Chris says.

Still, she says there is considerable satisfaction in being instrumental in finding and settling the 100 or so clients the trust does each year into good quality homes at a cost that is sustainable for them.

In 2009, the trust broadened its purposes to include not only finding good housing for those with disabilities but others in the community struggling to find homes they could afford.

Today, the priority groups are households on low incomes, those with unmet housing needs along with the primary cohort of disabled people and their families.

Chris says the affordability issue is directly related to several compelling factors experienced in Tauranga.

“It is not just a disproportionate percentage of residents aged 66 years and older and a significant proportion of single or two-person households but also Tauranga’s exploding population growth, housing costs relative to income and a mismatch between housing demand and supply, particularly of one, two and five bedroom dwellings.”

“Looking back on our journey with the objectives and visions we set for ourselves, I can say that affordability is considerably worse than it was 10 years ago.”

The Tauranga Community Housing Trust undertook and completed two substantial housing projects: The Clarke Street Village and the Tara and Kakariki Lodges.

To counteract this reality, the Tauranga Community Housing Trust undertook and completed two substantial housing projects: The Clarke Street Village and the Tara and Kakariki Lodges.

The Clarke Street Village ‘Te Whango’, comprising 14 one and two-bedroom units capable of comfortably housing 20 people including children, sprung into being following the trust purchasing from the Tauranga City Council’s stock

Building classic homes Paul Taylor leads a busy team of sales and support staff at Classic Builders based in Tauranga.

The company has been in the residential building market in the Bay for two decades and in that time has established itself as a leading supplier of quality homes, from design and build to house and land packages which have increasingly become the niche.

The company’s association with Tauranga’s Community Housing Trust tracks back to the end of 2013 when Classic Builders successfully tendered for an ambitious new housing project designed to offer independent and semiindependent quality accommodation for TCHT’s clients. The project was completed last year; an experience Paul says he really enjoyed.

“We have a strong commitment to be involved as much as possible with community-generated projects and this housing project was a fine example of what a community-based organisation can achieve,” says Paul.

The Clarke St Village/Te Whango development involved Classic Builders completing 14 one and two-bedroom units capable of housing over 20 residents including children.

Paul says it is a fine example of what can be achieved in a city where land and housing opportunities for those with special housing needs are increasingly scarce.

“A special character of the project was the involvement in those connected with the Trust assisting in the construction as able under the direction of a Classic

Builders construction manager who oversaw the project from start to finish.”

Classic Builders has an enviable history of receiving national awards accolades, including one last year when it was voted the most satisfying company to build with in the Bay of Plenty. Paul credits this to the highly tuned build process the company has evolved, a system that delivers an easy, open and empowering building experience for home-owners.

“Everything is done upfront and everything is chosen upfront so our clients know right from the start what they will get, when that will happen and how much it will cost.”

Separating Classic Builders from other group housing companies is the extended after care warranty known as Classic Care.

The company maintains regular contact with home-owners and attends to any issues they have a responsibility to for 12 months following the hand-over of keys.

“We know word is out there about all that a Classic build provides. We hear it from new home-owners who have moved into the area who were been told to come and see us if they want a quality build.”

House and land packages have increasingly become core business for the company. As 2016 began the company had approximately 300 sections scattered over several sub-divisions in and around the greater Tauranga area.

“With so much interest from all over New Zealand, and particularly Auckland, in living in the Bay of Plenty we can offer prospective clients a wide range of options for design and build as well as house and land.”

of pensioner housing eight pensioner units in need of upgrade. With $1.7 million from Government and further funding from local funders such as Bay Trust and TECT (Tauranga Energy Consumers Trust), the project has not only provided quality housing to those most at need but is a fine example of how community housing can arise in a form that adds value to the life of the community it serves.

Essentially in intensifying the lands use with the addition of a further six units, communal green

spaces, storage, parking and gardens have arisen.

Tara and Kakariki Lodges were officially opened in the first quarter of 2014. Tara Lodge is available to single women with or without children while Kakariki Lodge is for single adults.

“These lodges give these groups in need of immediate accommodation the space and time for us to work alongside them transitioning them toward ultimately relocating into longer-term housing.

When asked what needs to change in order for more substantive community housing issues to be resolved longer-term, Chris says an array of interventions are required.

“The reintroduction of capital grants to organisations such as ours along with Income Related Support Subsidies would be a good starting place.”

The substantial and ongoing stream of philanthropically derived funding Chris describes as the life-blood of the day to day operation of the trust.

“We just wouldn’t be able to operate ongoing achieving all that we have without their operational contributions. We are very thankful to have the support of organisations such as The Southern Trust and The Lion Foundation among many.”

Business North

PROPERTY » Property Managers Group

| 15

Growing from strength to strength Sue Russell Since forming in 1992, Bay of Plenty based Property Managers Group has grown from a specialist commercial property syndicator into a multi-disciplined property company spanning management, investment and body corporate.

Today, the group has raised over $100 million in investment capital across private syndications and their unlisted property fund, Pacific Property Limited. In addition, the property management and body corporate arms of the business have grown to be a significant component of the company.

“As significant owners of property ourselves, we needed high-quality property management services to maintain occupancy and protect the valuations of our investor’s properties. So it made sense for us to develop our own property management and body corporate arms internally”, explains CEO Scott McKenzie.

Servicing predominantly the Bay, Waikato and Auckland, the company owns and manages a diverse range of commercial properties across these areas.

The vision of company founder Denis McMahon was very much about providing investors with opportunities to invest across many forms of commercial property and over a wider geography than just the Bay of Plenty.

Taking this concept a step further was the establishment of an unlisted property fund called Pacific Property. Investors own shares within the company which, following two additional acquisitions in December 2015, owns three properties across Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga.

The portfolio is valued at over $22m and provides further diversification with a focus on sustainable dividend returns and growth in value to shareholders.

Investments generally range from $20,000 to $500,000 depending on the scale and nature of the investment offering.

Executive director Denis McMahon says that since appointing Matt McHardy into the new sales and investment manager role last year he has seen a marked improvement in the ability to buy and sell within the company’s investment offerings.

“Matt has helped to negotiate a large number of transactions on the secondary market throughout 2015 totalling more than $6,530,000 in funds changing hands between buyers and sellers. These results are spread across a number of different property syndicates in various locations around the North Island, so we enter 2016 with strong optimism that the growth will continue,” Denis says.

One core strength of the company, and one that distinguishes it from others, is that along with their clients they too are investors in the properties in Property Management Group’s portfolio.

“It shows our direct connection with, and interest in, the investments we manage for our clients – as we are invested alongside them,” Matt says.

The company has evolved to include management of commercial property and more recently in 2015 a specialised division offering administrative services to body corporates.

Growth in interest and use of the latter has exceeded expectations.

Tony Brindle leads Property Managers Body

Property Managers Group has grown from a specialist commercial property syndicator into a multi-disciplined property company spanning management, investment and body corporate.

Corporate Ltd, a separate company within the group. Not only does he bring a wealth of experience in professional body corporate administration, but as part of Property Managers Group he and his team can access the wealth of resources in the group, including facilities and project management services.

Beyond managing commercial investment for its clients and offering body corporate administrative resourcing, the third arm of the company, commercial property management, is thriving.

The property management arm is on track to achieve just over 30 per cent year-on-year growth to March 31, 2016.

“From a commercial point of view, property management is much more than simply collecting the rent. It demands active liaison with tenants to understand their current and future leasing needs. Above all, the ability to develop positive relationships to add future value for owner and leasee alike,” says McKenzie.

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16 |

BUILDING » Buchan Group

Business North

The design of Auckland’s NorthWest Shopping Centre was influenced by the West Coast and surrounding vineyards.

NorthWest by name and nature Karen Phelps A new shopping centre has sought inspiration from the surrounding area resulting in a unique design for North West Auckland, say The Buchan Group project architect Bojana Hynes and project leader Daniel Eiem.

“The overall design concept for the NorthWest Shopping Centre was heavily influenced by the West Coast and surrounding vineyards. Materials such as concrete, steel and timber dominate and are incorporated throughout the mall to link the various common area spaces, public amenities and respite areas,” says Daniel.

Charlotte Cochrane, company associate who undertook the interior design for the project, says that design features reflecting the local area include a tiling layout inspired by the shapes and colours of the sand washed up upon the rugged beaches, a timber feature ceiling evoking the shapes and lines of a wine barrel and full height rebar structures supporting feature vines.

“The food court furniture continues the theme with perforated metal screens designed

to create the dappled light effect found under the pergola of a local winery, orange and white colours suggestive of fruit and the West Coast gannet colonies and natural timber table tops and wire table legs reminiscent of the number 8 wire ethos of the area. All of these features evoke connection with surrounding areas which are such an important historic element of this part of Auckland,” Charlotte says.

Bojana says that a key feature of the NorthWest Shopping Centre was the integration of traditional main street retail mixed with the shopping centre model to provide a new shopping experience.

To achieve this The Buchan Group created several distinct building facades to define the street frontage and flank the main entry to the mall.

Another challenge was integrating a drop of ten metres along the length of the site into the design while still ensuring that the internal spaces of the building served tenants and the general public.

Owned by Stride Property, the NorthWest Shopping Centre is part of a larger, comprehensively master planned North Massey Town Centre for West Auckland with easy access from the Northwestern motorway and only 18km Northwest of Auckland city.

“All of these features evoke connections with surrounding areas which are such an important historic element of this part of Auckland.”

The shopping centre will form part of the new town centre and comprises a two level Farmers department store at one end and a Countdown supermarket at the other end separated by a 200 metre long curved clerestory roof that encloses the main concourse.

Between the two anchor tenants there are approximately 100 specialty tenancies and around 1200 car parking spaces will be offered.

The Buchan Group is an international company, which specializes in large scale retail design projects as well as offering a full range of architectural services to a variety of other industries.

The company was established 125 years ago and set up its New Zealand office in 1990 to complement offices in London, Dubai, Shanghai and Australia.

The company was recently ranked number three in the world in retail in Building Design’s annual World Architecture 100 list for 2016, which surveys the world’s largest practices ranked by the number of fee-earning architects they employ.

In architecture the company was ranked number 58 globally and number three in Australasia.

Although the company regularly undertakes large scale new build retail projects overseas it is rare for an opportunity such as NorthWest Shopping Centre to present itself in the New Zealand market, says Charlotte.

The company also has just completed The Brickworks dining lane extension at LynnMall in New Lynn, Auckland, and is currently working on the Tauranga Crossing project, which is under construction.

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Business North

BUILDING » Bridgens & Thomson Builders

| 17

Bridgens & Thomson Builders undertakes new home builds and renovations, landscaping and interior design.

Where the ‘can-do’ spirit thrives Karen Phelps When two childhood friends, who are also two qualified and passionate builders who have both been working in the industry for well over a decade, decided to start a company the result was Bridgens & Thomson Builders.

Formed in 2006, the company covers the wider Auckland region with one director, Brad Thomson, being based in Matakana and the other director, Ryan Bridgens, based in Auckland.

Ryan says that the company’s point of difference is the tight knit team that has resulted from the two friends deciding to start a company together.

“We project manage from the site rather than from an office. We work with a tool belt on,” says Ryan, who is managing a helicopter landing on a remote building site on Kawau Island to deliver materials as he speaks.

“Regardless of the scale of the project we can guarantee that our clients will be liaising with one of us from start to finish.”

Bridgens & Thomson Builders undertakes new home builds and renovations, landscaping and interior design.

It is Ryan’s wife Deborah Mann who is the company’s interior designer and Ryan’s brother

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Logan, who has qualifications in landscape design, as well as being a Licensed Building Practitioner who offers Bridgens & Thomson clients a full landscape design and construction service.

“Incorporating all aspects of hard and soft landscaping, Bridgens & Thomson Builders is able to do everything from building decks, retaining walls and fences to plant selection, water features and the implementation of irrigation and lighting systems. It’s just one part of the full service we aim to offer our clients,” says Ryan.

Ryan says that the company has swiftly gained a reputation for excellence since it started: “We love getting to know our client and establishing exactly what they want. We’ll then go out of our way to ensure the best possible results,” he says.

Ryan says that the company prefers to be involved early if possible in design and build projects in order to offer practical building advice, which can often save clients time and money.

The company employs a team of permanent contractors, some of whom have been with the company since its inception, providing a stable, qualified workforce, says Ryan.

Bridgens & Thomson Builders is a member of the Certified Builders Association of New Zealand

and all staff are Licensed Building Practitioners.

At present the company is working on a new home build on Kawau Island, a 70sqm Kiwi bach, which has required high levels of project management as materials have all had to be flown in by helicopter. The build comprises two bedrooms and a sleep out.

“It’s about making sure everything arrives on time. Obviously we can’t nip down the road to pick up anything that’s been forgotten. This build really shows our can-do attitude,” says Ryan.

Back on the mainland, the company is also completing a couple of renovation projects in Milford. Bridgens & Thomson Builders has just finished a two-year new home build at Omaha.

The 440sqm, five bedroom, four bathroom home is made from concrete, white block and vertical cedar weatherboard.

Designed by Julian-Guthrie, it’s a project, which has required a high level of finishing and detailing.

Ryan thinks the project demonstrates the company’s capabilities at both ends of the market.

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18 |

BUILDING » Jennian Homes - North West

Business North

New show home a hit with clients Sue Russell Jennian Homes North West has received a lot of design and build enquiries since opening its show home in Long Bay. Jennian Homes North West Sales Manager Aimee Chikunda says that the home is attracting the attention of clients who are able to clearly see Jennian Homes’ capabilities in terms of craftsmanship, design and quality of build.

The four-bedroom home at Tuatini Place is a Cape Cod style home suited to the site, which has extensive sea views. Clad in a classic Linea weatherboard the home comprises four living areas and two bathrooms plus ensuite as well as a double garage. Jennian Homes North West is offering house and land packages in Long Bay based on the popular Tuatini Place show home design but uniquely suited to the individual sites.

The Long Bay show home complements the franchise’s other show home in Hobsonville, which is due to be replaced by a brand new show home in mid 2016. Aimee says that the franchise has recognised that Hobsonville is a rapidly growing area of Auckland.

“Hobsonville has a real community atmosphere. Two brand new schools have been built in the Hobsonville Point development as well as a café and children’s playground.

Hobsonville is just 15 minutes ferry ride to downtown Auckland,” she says citing some of the reasons for the suburb’s popularity.

The new contemporary Hobsonville show home, due to begin construction early next year, will comprise two storeys and a semi-detached garage. Upstairs the home will include four bedrooms including two master bedrooms with ensuites while downstairs will offer open plan living. Three different levels of specification will be offered which customers can mix and match depending on their budget and preferences.

The show home is currently being offered for sale off the plan with a leaseback agreement to Jennian Homes North West of 12 months.

The Auckland region has grown to the extent that Jennian Homes franchises in this city are split into separate parts of the city.

Jennian Homes North West covers as far north as Silverdale, south to Wiri Station Road and everything west of the motorway.

The franchise has three owners, Mark Welch, Aaron Quinn and Riley Lockett, who all have extensive experience in the construction industry. Jennian Homes North West completes a variety of builds including multi complexes,

The four-bedroom Cape Cod style home is suited to the site, which has extensive sea views. terraced housing, simple residential and multi million dollar houses.

Aimee says that Jennian Homes North West is always seeking to recruit the best design and build team for its area, as the skill of its team is what sets it apart. The franchise doesn’t contract builders. Instead most builders are employed by the owners of Jennian Homes North West.

Aimee says that this is a key point of difference giving control over quality and construction timeframes. The franchise also employs its own in-house architects and draughting team. Strong levels of enquiry have led Jennian Homes North West to expand its team recently employing an additional new home consultant, quantity surveyor and construction supervisor.

“Often in Auckland now, with the way the market has risen, it is more cost-effective to build a new home than to buy an existing one.”

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Business North

BUILDING » Jennian Homes - BOP/Tauranga

| 19

Jennian Homes offers a range of plans as well as a full design and build option.

Firm focused on design and quality Karen Phelps Jennian Homes BOP will soon have a brand new show home in The Lakes Tauranga.

The company is in the process of obtaining consents to build a 260sqm architecturally designed home at the entranceway to the newly released Summit stage of the subdivision.

Shane Lye from Jennian Homes BOP says that the company is working with their key suppliers to ensure the new upmarket home includes the latest products and design features.

The show home, an executive family residence, will include four bedrooms, two bathrooms, two living areas, and designer kitchen and scullery.

Construction is expected to start soon with completion later this year.

Jennian Homes BOP has been building in The Lakes Tauranga since 2013 and is currently offering a range of house and land packages in the subdivision.

Jennian Homes BOP has experienced constant growth since the franchise was taken over by

builders Shane Lye and Matt Mackay.

“We’ve been growing as the market in the Bay of Plenty has been growing. There’s been a lot of activity from both locals and also new people moving into the town,” says Matt.

Jennian Homes offers a range of plans as well as a full design and build option. Clients can log onto the My Jennian section of the company website to make the process of building a home easy: “My Jennian is a place where clients can keep all their favourite Jennian Homes house plans and once the build starts they can also use this section to check up on progress as their New Home Consultant will post regular updates and photos of construction here for them to see anytime you like.

They can even forward the photos onto friends and family straight from the site,” says Shane.

Matt says the real point of difference with Jennian Homes BOP is that most of the builds the company undertakes are design and build projects and that most aspects are completed in-house.

“This means that the client deals with the directors from an early stage. We prioritise giving the client what they want to suit their budget. We

employ our own builders to give us greater control over quality. We are a more boutique style builder but with the backing of Jennian’s 33 years in the building industry,” he explains.

While the market for The Lakes Tauranga is mainly owner/occupiers other developments around the city are attracting a lot of interest from investors.

Jennian Homes BOP is also currently building Bethlehem, Mt Maunganui and Papamoa, as well as undertaking a number of projects in Omokoroa, Waihi Beach and Katikati. Jennian offers a seven year Master Build guarantee as well as applicable supplier warranties and guarantees on all new home builds.

The company’s strong focus on quality is evidenced by its wins at the Registered Master Builders House of the Year Awards.

In 2015 the company won a gold award in the new homes $500,000-$600,000 section and a silver award in the show home section in the Bay of Plenty/Central Plateau region.

The company’s last three show homes have in fact all won awards at the competition (the Papamoa show home which won the silver in 2015 was the only show home in the subdivision to be awarded).

“These awards reflect the type of high quality homes the company consistently produces. At Jennian Homes BOP quality is our number one priority.

“We want every home to be special. We want our clients to be happy for years to come, and we also want to drive past every home we build and feel proud of what we have achieved for our clients.”

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20 |

BUILDING » Building & Renovation Services

Business North

A master of high-spec renovations Karen Phelps Auckland based building company Building & Renovations Services Ltd (BRS) prides itself on not taking a “cookie cutter” approach to building, says Jo Marsden from BRS Ltd. “Every project we undertake is customised to the specific needs of the customer. That takes a lot of expertise to get right,” she says.

BRS Ltd was started in 2010 by Ross Collins and his wife Karen. Back then the company employed just one staff member.

BRS Ltd has grown rapidly and now employs 20 staff including experienced and qualified builders, apprentices, a project manager, an office manager, an office assistant plus a network of highly skilled sub-contractors. The company also works with Bay’s Architecture to offer clients a full service.

Although the company does take on new builds it is the company’s expertise in bungalow and villa restoration and extensions that have set it apart.

“Ross’ background is in renovations and it’s a very specialised area. He has a real passion for older homes and challenging projects. We blend up to date building methods and tools with the skill

and knowledge of a carpenter to produce the best results for our client’s projects,” explains Jo. BRS Ltd has recently become a member of the Certified Builders Association of New Zealand.

“Certified Builders must be qualified and it is a mark of quality. We focus on high quality work so it fitted in well with the company ethos,” she explains.

At present the company is working on a large renovation in Devonport, which is a good example of the company’s skills in the high spec renovation market. The home had to be propped up on piles then excavated underneath for six weeks while the clients were still living there. A two-bedroom unit has been constructed underneath. BRS Ltd is also renovating the interior of the existing home.

Jo says the Auckland market is ever evolving and the premium on space has made it increasingly attractive for people to choose to renovate.

“BRS customers really love their houses and want to live in style. It’s about getting the best out of the home and land people already have. The majority of the renovations we take on are significant – large extensions or adding an additional storey.”

BRS Ltd can take on multiple projects at a time and offers a complete project management service, drawing on its pool of trusted sub-trades that have proven to be reliable and trustworthy and most of all match Ross’ high standard of workmanship, says Jo. “By fully managing the project and organising all the required trades it means that there is minimal

downtime and stress for our clients. We also take care of arranging council inspections to save our customers time and hassle.”

She says that BRS Ltd is also aware of the importance of environmental sustainability and its impact on future generations. The company aims to keep up to date with the latest building technology and innovation, ensuring best practice and recommendations when it comes to creating safe, healthy and energy efficient homes.

“Our vision is always to get your build or renovation kitted out with the best environmentally friendly products. That’s why we prefer to build energy efficient homes to reduce utility bills and create healthier living spaces.

“Energy-efficient homes also have the happy side effect of increasing market value in the long run if our clients ever decide to sell.”

This focus on the environment also extends to how the company manages the project and site.

Jo says that BRS Ltd aims to “tread lightly on the land”. “We aim to reduce, reusing and recycle our industry waste while still maintaining high standards of quality.”

Jo says that a cornerstone of the on-going success of the business is a willingness to learn.

“BRS Ltd is about constantly improving and changing as a result. We are constantly progressing and refining our processes in order to deal with the avalanche of work that has become available in Auckland, and increasing our levels of customer service as we do so.”

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Business North

BUILDING » KF Builders

| 21

Karl keeps his firm moving forward Karen Phelps If you’re not learning then you’re business is standing still. This is the belief of Karl Fowke, director of KF Builders, and is evidenced by the wide range of services his company offers: new home builds, renovations, landscaping and project management as well as home inspections and consulting for home buyers and material sourcing and project management for DIY customers.

“I’m focused on constantly learning and improving,” says Karl. “If you don’t, you get left behind.”

Based in Mt Albert, Auckland, Karl started his business in 1998 as the obvious next step in progressing his building career after working for other people. KF Builders grew steadily progressing to larger and larger projects.

Karl says that KF Builders is very focused on its clients and their needs giving customers maximum bang for their buck.

“We try to think outside the box to save our clients time and money,” says Karl.

“It’s about building what the client wants but also including them as part of the process.

“The more input clients make the easier the process is and we focus on listening to everything they say. Most of our clients become extremely good friends.”

All new home builds are one-off design and build projects. Clients can either come with their own plans or Karl puts them in contact with an architect after often personally helping with the conceptual drawings himself.

“By giving clients conceptual drawings to take to an architect it can save them a lot of time and money.

“We specialise in listening to what they want and putting it down on paper in a realistic buildable design so the architects has a pretty good idea of what is required from the start.”

But it is renovating villas and other challenging projects, which really get Karl and his team excited. Karl says this also relates to the need to continue to learn, which is easier on more

KF Builders offers a wide range of services including new home builds, renovations, landscaping and project management as well as home inspections and consulting for home buyers. difficult projects. The company is in the process of completing a project on a grade two historic home in Herne Bay, which Karl calls a “labour of love”.

The company has significantly increased the size of the home including a 50 square metre excavation underneath. In keeping with the grade of the home three faces of the house had to be kept original.

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the roofline upwards. The interior of the home was gutted to make for a more open plan design.

Replicas were created of original features such as skirtings, architraves and ceiling battens.

No matter what the project Karl and his team can take care of it from start to finish. Karl operates an open book policy: “I charge a management fee for the project rather than charging margins on products etc.

Clients can see everything that has been bought, how much was paid for it, logs for staff working on site etc. Everything is transparent,” he says.

The company typically focuses on one project at a time as well as offering other services to the public such as non-invasive pre-sale and pre-purchase home inspections.

As some clients like to dabble in DIY projects but lack the qualifications of a professional builder Karl helps fill in the blanks in their projects such as overseeing the work to make sure it has been done correctly and supplying building materials.

“I’ve very hands on and I like to give my all to every project no matter how big or small.

“The bottom line is we go out of our way to help our customers and make sure everybody is happy.”

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22 |

BUILDING » Auckland Builders / Mike Reidy Builders

Business North

Breathing new life into old homes a fine art Sue Russell

Auckland Builders tackles a variety of projects, including new builds, renovations and reclads.

Builder earns trust of clients Karen Phelps Building a designer bathroom for a client recently pretty much sums up what Auckland Builders is all about, says company director Mathew Den Boogert.

“The client had always dreamed of having a claw foot bath. Now she gets home from work, lies back in her claw foot bath with a glass of wine and enjoys the bathroom we built for her. It’s a good feeling to help someone to get something they’ve always wanted,” he says.

Mathew, who has a level 4 certificate in carpentry and is a Licensed Building Practitioner and member of the Certified Builders Association of New Zealand, started his business in 2008 with nearly two decades of building experience behind him. Auckland Builders tackles a variety of projects including new builds, landscaping, roofing, light commercial, maintenance, leaky homes and reclads, renovations and alterations, electrical and plumbing work, painting, decks, fences and retaining walls. The company recycles building materials from sites where possible.

“The first thing we do with our customers is to build trust. We do this by presenting a professional image in all aspects of the business and by listening to their ideas,” explains Mathew.

But of course it is the company’s highly skilled team that makes the difference, he says. And recognising the importance of encouraging the next generation of builders, in 2015 the company participated in the De La Salle College Gateway programme, which involved work experience students carrying out labour intensive works and getting basic on-site carpentry training.

Other recent projects completed by the company demonstrate its in-house skills, diversity and ability to take on unique challenges including an insurance job on a home where the ground had slumped away underneath leaving a large hole.

“It was a two storey house and the hole left a 12m long row of piles exposed up in the air,” says Mathew. “It was technically challenging and we spent several weeks digging out clay by hand from underneath the house.”

Around 15 cubic metres of clay was removed filling up five large skip bins. The home had to be propped first for support then after the clay was removed a retaining wall built, drain installed and the hole backfilled with scoria. The project involved the expertise of an engineer, architect and plumber.

Auckland Builders is presently working on a variety of projects including installing timber French doors in a 1950s home in New Lynn and converting a garage into an office with bathroom and kitchen on a home in Onehunga. Next year the company will start a basement development in Sandringham and a reclad of a Mt Eden home.

Mathew offers free quotes and works with architects and other contractors to provide a complete service to clients.

“Auckland Builders is based on the belief that our customers’ needs are of the utmost importance.

Our entire team is committed to meeting those needs. ‘No excuses - only results’ is the company slogan. As a result a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers and referrals.

We do both the big and the little jobs because smaller jobs can also lead to larger jobs further down the track. We welcome the opportunity to earn our clients’ trust and deliver them the best service in the industry.”

Residential building company Mike Reidy Builders Ltd specialises in additions, alterations, renovations and new homes, house recladding and leaky home repairs. They also do full project management and design and build services in the greater North Shore and Rodney districts.

Mike Reidy has been in the trade since starting his building apprenticeship in 1983 and set up his own business in 1996. Mike is a qualified trade certified licensed builder and says he enjoys the challenges that come with working around existing forms, modernising spaces to breathe new life into a home.

From small beginnings, constructing a pergola and a small deck, he has built the business up to where it is today with a team of seven builders along with two apprentices.

As a member of the Certified Builders Association, an organisation he is involved with at committee level for the Auckland branch, he can offer all the benefits that go with membership to his clients including a comprehensive contract and a 10 year Home First Builders Guarantee which is the best builders guarantee in New Zealand.

“You have to be trade qualified to belong to the Certified Builders and unlike some alternative contract options our building contract is designed to support both parties,” Mike says.

As part of his role on the Auckland Certified Builders Committee Mike visits schools educating students on what it is to be a qualified builder and business operator in today’s climate.

“I think the High Schools need to be a lot more informed about the trades. When we visit schools it is obvious to me that the message these kids receive from many careers advisors is ‘If you are not bright go do a trade’, when in fact to run a

Mike Reidy Builders specialises in additions, alterations and renovations.

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Business North

BUILDING » Mike Reidy Builders

| 23

Mike Reidy Builders set up shop in 1996 and now has a team of seven builders and two apprentices. successful building company you need the full raft of professional inter-related skills and qualities.”

Most of the company’s building projects come in the form of major alterations and additions to existing houses.

He says this specialisation isn’t necessarily suited to everyone, demanding a different mind-set from building new homes. He describes it best when he talks about ‘thinking’ backwards.

“Oh it is enormously different and really challenging to work from an existing or altered space into a new form as opposed to starting from scratch and following a pre-determined plan.

Sometimes changes have to be made depending on what unfolds in the process and so communication is a huge aspect of the job.”

Once contact has been established Mike supplies a prospective client with a list of questions they should ask of any builder to ascertain for themselves just how professional and organised

the builder is. He then starts his unique three-step process which takes the client through to budget schedules and contracts.

Mike says running a building company carries all the responsibilities inherent in running any business.

“I sat down one day and counted up everything I actually do and there were about 25 separate functions relating to the smooth running of the project and the business. That is the reality of being a great builder in this day and age.”

Mike has received substantial support through ‘Trades Coach’, a business mentoring pathway designed specifically for tradespeople wanting to progress their business.

“There comes a point where you need to step back and really review your structure so that as your reputation grows and the work load increases from that, you are in the best position to continue to deliver top quality outcomes for your clients.”

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24 |

BUILDING » Pink Construction

Business North

Buiding a niche in childcare sector Karen Phelps It’s a distinctive name with an eye catching, if not unusual, choice of colour to represent a building company.

“Pink Construction is a name that people really remember,” says company director Brad Albrecht whose team drives around Auckland in vans emblazoned with the company’s unique hot pink signage.

Brad says the company name has worked well for the business in terms of helping it to establish a name for itself in the childcare and education sectors, with the name giving a fun, friendly feel to the company that matches well with these markets. The company’s first childcare project was a centre in South Auckland. The success of the job helped establish strong links with local architects working in this sector. Over the past few years Pink Construction has completed a number of projects, which demonstrate its ample skills in this market.

The company has just finished new childcare centre builds for Kia Kidz in Manurewa and Little One’s Garden in Papatoetoe as well as completed an addition to the childcare centre at Avondale College. Pink Construction is about to start work on a large addition to Mataliki Preschool in Mangere East, a new Kia Kidz in Favona and a new build for Rainbow Early Learning Centre in Takanini.

“There are obviously a lot more safety components to childcare and education work,” says Brad. “Council inspections are very rigorous and high levels of finish are required on these types of projects. We have a lot of experience now in what is required to work in this sector and deliver the results necessary.”

Of course, higher safety requirements also extend to how the job is undertaken on site. Often the company is at work while children are in or near the building. Areas are fenced off and dust and noise rigorously controlled, all in liaison with the school programme.

“For example, on the Avondale College project recently we had to minimise our noise levels during nap times,” says Brad. “It just requires more stringent project management and planning on our part to schedule the job around the unique requirements of each client.”

He says it is the company’s general approach and way of dealing with clients that sets it apart.

Communication channels are always open between client and contractor ensuring that everybody’s needs are met during the build, says Brad.

But despite the fact Pink Construction is in demand in the childcare and education sectors the company still completes new home builds, renovations, roofs and general maintenance projects.

Brad has had an interesting work history, which probably stands him in good stead to run Pink Construction. He played professional rugby for a top club in Spain for over a decade, set up his own cabinet making business and of course developed extensive experience as a builder.

He took over sole ownership of Pink Construction in 2013 a year after the company was started. Pink Construction now employs a team of 12 full time contractors. Brad says one of his next goals is to establish a fund to build an orphanage in the Philippines. He has a few innovative ideas about how he could raise funds through each build Pink Construction undertakes. Watch this space.

Pink Construction has forged a name for itself in the childcare and educational sectors. The company also completes new home builds and renovations.

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Business North

BUILDING » ZB Homes

| 25

Interest spikes in show home Sue Russell

ZB Homes has become a major player in Tauranga’s burgeoning residential property building sector.

A qualified colour consultant is available for clients to access inspiration and to discuss the colour themes most suited to their life-style and the spaces of every home the company builds.

Looking ahead, another show-home is under way in The Lakes in the Summit Stage, due to open in September.

Rik says with demand for quality housing continuing to be strong in Tauranga his focus is on ensuring at all times that clients receive the best value experience throughout the building process.

“It’s about making sure clients feel connected with the building process.

“After all we are responsible for creating their

dream home, likely to be their single biggest investment and it is a responsibility we take seriously.”

With fewer and fewer large land spaces being released, Rik says the company has responded by turning this challenge into an opportunity, by deliberately looking for smaller sub-dividable areas in pockets throughout the region, including a 14-house development at Paengoroa at the end of the new Eastern Link south of Te Puke.

“I think this is increasingly going to become the way the Bay of Plenty evolves in the future by looking at existing sections of a size to allow smaller sub-divisions to be developed.”

“Our philosophy is to work from the clients brief and keep very much in mind the shape and nature of the land the home will be built on. I’ve seen houses that are ‘pushed’ to fit a section and it just doesn’t work.”

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While relatively new to Tauranga’s residential property building sector Rik Flowerday says the last 18 months have been an exciting and engaging time for the team at ZB Homes Tauranga.

“When we first started I did mainly sales and ran the overall operation of the company but with all the growth that has happened in the area we service we have taken on more staff and structured their roles for maximum efficiency,” says Rik. With 15 to 20 houses under construction at any one time in the buoyant greater-Tauranga region, Rik says initial targets for the businesses performance have been easily surpassed.

ZB Homes show home at 193 The Lakes Boulevard has attracted a lot of interest Rik says.

Priced at $395,000 the brick home with longrun iron roof comes complete with surrounding landscaping, heat pump, floor covering and designer kitchen and a neutral internal colour pallet.

“It is an H-style house with a central living area separating two wings.

“This allows for a great deal of flexibility in how the spaces in the home are used. One client made one of the wings a separate living area for her own private use.”

Rik puts the success of the business down to the simple sensible approach he and the team take with clients right from the start.

“Our philosophy is to work from the clients brief and keep very much in mind the shape and nature of the land the home will be built on. I’ve seen houses that are ‘pushed’ to fit a section and it just doesn’t work.”

The company employs a team of 15 builders along with a management, sales and administration staff of five in the office. Along with this when demand is high, four contracted crews can be brought in. Demand has been such of late that these crews are virtually engaged full-time with the company.

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26 |

BUILDING » Zeal Builders

Business North

Flexibility key for dynamic young team Karen Phelps Zeal Builders is young, friendly and energetic, says company owner Zane Milns. He believes that it is the team’s enthusiasm, zeal and quality workmanship that sets it apart.

“Our team is made up of what we believe are some of the best licensed and certified builders in New Zealand. Honesty and reliability is important.

We carry out each job in a professional manner and quality is paramount to us.

“At the same time we are a friendly and approachable bunch and will always go the extra mile for our clients,” he explains.

Zane started his company in 2011 and since that time it has grown organically by word of mouth. Zeal Builders now employs a team of 12 full-time contractors.

Zeal Builders undertakes basically anything to do with home building including new builds, renovations, extensions and reclads as well as smaller projects such as decks.

With regards to new home builds clients generally come to the company with plans but Zeal Builders also works with local architects if a client has not already had plans drawn up.

The company provides an obligation free quote.

Zeal Builders can project management the whole build and the client can be as involved as they want to be, says Zane.

Zeal Builders is a member of the Certified Builders Association of New Zealand and offers clients the Association’s range of guarantees.

Zane says being a member has helped to give clients peace of mind.

“At the end of the day we are there for the client.

They have to be happy,” he says.

At present the company’s largest market is renovations, partially due to the shortage of land for new home builds in Auckland.

The company has just completed a large

Zeal by name ... the young and enthusiastic team at Auckland-based Zeal Builders (above) and roof trusses going up on a new house build (below). renovation project in Orewa, which involved an extension and reclad of a seventies era home.

It has also just finished a reclad project in Mission Bay and a new home build in Coatesville, demonstrating not only the company’s range of experience but also the fact that it works all over the wider Auckland region.

Zane says one of the key attributes of the company is its flexibility: “For example if they want to make changes to their plans before or during the build it’s more than okay. Anything is possible.

“We are there 100% for the client.

“Above all else, customer care and satisfaction is our top priority.”

Zane says that although young in years the team at Zeal Builders are experienced, focused and driven and each one brings a wealth of knowledge and practical skills to the team.

“We love what we do and our passion is evident in our work,” he says.

Zeal Builders is continuing to grow and Zane sees no signs of this slowing down. At present the company is working on a large renovation project in Remuera and the extension of a home in Whangaparaoa.

“We are more than happy to sit down with clients to discuss their options and understand their vision.

“Our aim is to listen to what our clients want and deliver on that.”

“For example if they want to make changes to their plans before or during the build it’s more than okay. Anything is possible. We are there 100% for the client. Above all else, customer care and satisfaction is our top priority.”

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Business North

BUILDING » Platinum Homes - Whangarei

| 27

It’s what you can’t see that counts Karen Phelps It is the things people can’t see behind the walls that make Platinum Homes different from the rest, says Dean McGonagle, director of Platinum Homes Northland.

“It’s what we do behind the walls that make a huge difference to the longevity of a home,” he says.

The company has just launched a brand new show home at Haruru Falls in the Watea subdivision, which demonstrates just these features, which Dean is happy to tell customers about so they can make informed decisions.

“There are many features behind the walls, for example we use 4 x 2 timber for both the external and internal framing whereas some other companies use 3 x 2 for internal framing.

“We also have two rows of nogs (the horizontal framing that goes in between studs). Both of these features people can’t see but they make the home much stronger,” he says.

The new 213 square metres show home offers three bedrooms and borders a lake connecting to the Waitangi River, giving it a rural feel. The home is available for purchase on a lease back contract. The plan has also since been included in the Platinum Homes range and is called the Waitangi.

The new show home complements the company’s other show home at Marsden Cove, which was opened around a year ago, as Dean identified that Waipu, Ruakaka and Kerikeri as high

growth areas. This 217 square metre show home, which has been based on the company’s Whitianga plan, comprises three bedrooms including an ensuite and walk in wardrobe in the master bedroom, study and double garage. The bathroom is a little unique in that the vanity, shower/bath and toilet are all located in separate rooms side by side accessed off one door in the hallway. The kitchen, complete with large scullery, has bi-fold doors opening to an internal courtyard.

The company is already designing another show home at Marsden Cove to replace the existing one when its lease expires with construction set to begin in April and opening before Christmas next year.

Dean says the Northland market continues to be very strong and the company has been kept busy. Platinum Homes Northland is offering single level house and land packages at Marsden Cove and is busy pricing up a two storey package based on the company’s Petronas plan and situated on a waterfront section due for release to the market next year.

“The whole Whangarei region is taking off and really going ahead and there are some exciting things happening at Marsden Cove especially.”

Platinum Homes Northland also undertakes design and build. The company employs six office staff, two of which have drafting skills, which helps Platinum Homes Northland to assist clients with design and build projects. A regular team of trusted contractors are employed for consistency of quality.

Dean purchased his Platinum Homes franchise

Platinum Homes Whitianga range designer kitchen features scullery and bi-fold windows in 2004 and has been building since 1984. At the time Platinum Homes were not planning on entering the Northland market, he says, but Dean’s desire to offer clients competitive pricing and continue to build quality mid-range homes saw him open the fourth Platinum Homes franchise in New Zealand at the time.

Dean’s partner, Belinda Vuletich, has project managed the builds for Platinum Homes Northland for over ten years. The company has now constructed nearly 200 homes under the Platinum

Homes banner and covers the Kaipara, Whangarei and Far North District Council areas. “I’ve been building all my life,” says Dean, “and the main aim is always to produce a quality product. However a quality product is nothing without providing a great service giving the homeowner an enjoyable experience. It is important to me that Imakes a difference in the industry and always strives for a quality of build and service that is second to none.

“I want to build beautiful homes that stand the test of time.”

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28 |

BUILDING » Suburban Solutions

Business North

Renovations that add real value Karen Phelps A combination of building expertise and a deep understanding of the real estate market is the key point of difference for Suburban Solutions, says company chief financial officer and project manager Dave Barton. Barton, who has a background in finance and is a qualified real estate agent, says that Suburban Solutions can ensure that any projects undertaken add real value to the home.

“We get involved in projects from the beginning when the client starts thinking of renovating their house. We work closely with our clients to pair them with the right architect for their project then provide an estimate of the building cost based on the concept plans.

“This means they can get a good idea of costs and how this matches their budget allowing them to make informed choices before moving onto the working drawings and building consent. When working drawings are completed we can give a fixed price quote. This helps the client to obtain bank finance as banks like certainty, especially regarding renovation projects,” explains Dave.

Suburban Solutions, a company specialising in villa and bungalow renovations, alterations and additions in the greater Auckland area, was purchased in 2014 by qualified builder Mitchell Avison.

Mitchell had previously operated another building company before deciding to specialise in the villa and bungalow renovation market.

Suburban Solutions offers a complete service from design and consenting through to construction and project management. In addition to fixed pricing, the company can work on a time and materials basis, charging a margin in an open book situation.

Suburban Solutions also undertakes new home builds and feasibility studies for clients, which is where its expertise in real estate really comes to the fore.

“We look at what clients can do with their land in view of Auckland Council regulations and advise people how to maximise their section adding value,” he says.

Mitchell takes charge of the physical construction of projects and says that during the building process, especially with regards to

“We look at what clients can do with their land in view of Auckland Council regulations and advise people how to maximise their section adding value.” renovations, there is always the element of the unknown, which makes projects both challenging and enjoyable.

“We work closely with our contractors and partners to ensure seamless project management and, over the years, have developed strong relationships with architects and suppliers including Jones Architects, Harbour City Plans and Jan Kippenberger.

“We believe what sets our company apart is our experience in dealing with project challenges and the combined knowledge of our team to suggest solutions, which work for everyone,” he explains.

Suburban Solutions Ltd is a Licensed Building Practitioner, has been trading since 1999 and is a registered member of the Certified Builders Association of New Zealand. The company uses Certified Builder contracts for its projects

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complemented by a project schedule with fixed payments due when stages of the project are completed.

Dave says that this fixed pricing assists budget planning and gives clients confidence that, should the project experience minor holdups such as weather or unavailability of a specific material, they won’t occur additional time in carpentry costs.

Suburban Solutions employs ten staff split into three teams meaning the company has the capacity to undertake multiple projects simultaneously.

Most of the company’s clients are from referral or generated by the Suburban Solutions website.

The company is currently working on major renovation projects on a villa in Mt Eden and a 1970s home in St Heliers. It has recently completed fitouts for a retail shop in Takapuna and Vertigo Bar & Kitchen in Pukekohe.

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Business North

BUILDING » Suburban Solutions

| 29

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30 |

BUILDING » Bespoke Interior Design

Business North

Truly bespoke, distinctive interiors Karen Phelps The name of Bespoke Interior Design says it all – the Auckland based company deals exclusively in individual custom designed interiors.

“Our philosophy is that good design really does impact our everyday life in a profoundly positive way. We excel in developing a unique, one-off design that is custom made for each client,” explains company owner Jane McAulayFrame.

Jane, who originally hails from Scotland where she also had her own design company, started Bespoke Interior Design in 2009. The business has grown organically since that time and now employs three staff and recently moved to new premises in Ponsonby.

Jane says that at the heart of her business is people.

“We genuinely love people and ensuring they get something personal and uniquely created for them. It’s about getting to know the clients, their personality and needs,” she says.

An initial consultation allows Bespoke Interior Design to gain a comprehensive understanding of the client and their requirements. Jane says that it is often preferable to meet at the applicable property so the designer can familiarise themselves with the surroundings or sit down with the client’s drawings.

“The important thing is we take time to listen to our clients ideas, needs and work to understand and develop their vision,” says Jane.

Jane says that each space, including separate spaces within a single project, are treated individually in a design sense as each space presents different architecture, views etc. No matter what the project though form and function is at the forefront of the design process.

“These are always warring components for a designer – ensuring something looks good but is still functional. Getting the balance correct is the key to good design,” she says.

“As an example when designing a sofa we need to make sure we make the correct fabric choice, not only for the colour and style but

Cliff house interior by Bespoke Interior Design.

also the type of fabric. For example, does the customers have pets or young children so the fabric has to very durable.

“We spend time on fabric analysis so we are choosing fabrics that not only look good but also meet the individual requirements of the customer.”

The company’s services include exterior and interior finishes selection, hard and soft fitout

selection, space planning, custom cabinetry, lighting design, window treatments and design management services, where during the project Bespoke Interior Design can be available to make site visits.

“These are to ensure the integrity of the design is upheld during construction and installation.

“We can assist by being there for furniture deliveries and the placing of furniture, rugs and accessories, coordinating these items for our clients.”

Bespoke Interior Design works on both residential and commercial projects. In the commercial sphere the company has been working with property building consultants Maynard Marks and Cove Kinloch on the interior

design aspect of a number of leaky home restoration projects.

One recent commercial project the company was involved in was Bolaven, an Asian fusion eatery in Mt Eden.

Bespoke Interior Design worked closely with the client and her team to achieve an organic, natural, Asian inspired interior to emulate the feel of the food produced by the restaurant in the décor.

With design a constantly changing industry Jane says it is important that both she and her team stay on the cusp of what is happening to continue to achieve the company’s trademark balance of flair, style and function in each project creating truly bespoke and distinctive interiors.

“These (form and function) are warring components for a designer – ensuring something looks good but is still functional. Getting the balance correct is the key to good design.”

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HOUSE OF THE YEAR AWARDS » The House Company

Business North

| 31

The 2015 House of the Year winner in the showhome category, built by The House Company.

Quality, detail behind award winner Karen Phelps Attention to detail resulting in a high quality finished product led The House Company to success at the 2015 House of the Year competition, says The House Company owner Hamish McArthur.

The company has consistently won awards at the competition since 2008.

“Each year the standard gets higher. So achieving an award is incredibly difficult.

The house has to be special and combine a high level of difficulty with exceptional finish as well as other features such as future proofing. Consistently winning awards gives our customers confidence in

the very high levels of professionalism the company is operated under and the high levels of quality we achieve,” he says.

In 2015 the company achieved gold, silver and lifestyle awards for the Auckland/Northland region in the new homes $650,000-$1million build and a regional gold award in the show homes section.

Hamish says a good example of the company’s work is the three-bedroom, two-bathroom, holidaystyle residence home in Langs Beach, which was awarded gold.

The home was a design and build project and Hamish says that materials were chosen to reflect the natural surroundings of the bush and sea including cedar weatherboard cladding and

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polished concrete flooring. Wood-textured cabinetry continued the theme on the inside of the home.

“There was a lot of attention to detail on this build. For example we rebated the joinery into the concrete so the indoor-outdoor flow was seamless.

The indoor-outdoor fireplace and the polished concrete floor inside were also perfect,” he says.

The House Company has been around since 1989 and is now based in Silverdale.

The company builds from Auckland to Waipu and employs a team of 12 staff including home consultants, contract designers, contract building gangs and site supervisors.

The company offers a full design and build service teaming clients up with a designer to create

a concept to match the client’s lifestyle, budget and site restrictions.

When undertaking a project Hamish says that The House Company completes a site assessment to determine the best design and orientation for the home.

The company then contacts council on the client’s behalf to check for elements that may affect the construction and overall cost of the building project.

This is all carried out free of charge.

The company offers fixed price contracts to give customers greater certainty over their budget.

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32 |

HOUSE OF THE YEAR AWARDS » The House Company

Business North

Quality, quantity for winner • from page 31 A qualified construction supervisor ensures a smooth transition from consent right through to the completion of the new home focusing on quality, attention to detail and timeliness.

Hamish says The House Company is also extremely focused on offering good after sales service: “We’ve built over 400 homes now and we’re still there for our clients to assist them when they need us,” he says.

“We also supply all our clients with a handover book at the end of every new home build,” says Hamish.

“This details a maintenance schedule as well as warranties on products in their home and the contact details for any of the subcontractors involved.

“Giving clients some of this information is now mandatory but we’ve been doing it for over eight years, which is just one example of how we always try to stay one step ahead.”

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Business North

HOUSE OF THE YEAR AWARDS » The House Company

Kitchen and dining room detail from a finished House Company home.

One-stop heating shop The Fire & Heating Company is the new home of Real Fires.

The rebranding of the showroom reflects the wider breadth of the company’s offering, which includes internationally recognised ranges, says company owner Ali Parsons.

The Fire & Heating Company offers a complete heating solution for a home with gas fires and space heating options from Real Fires, Rinnai and Regency. Ali says that each range offers customers a variety of options.

“Real Fires, our own locally manufactured extensive range, offers the closest experience possible to a traditional open fire. Rinnai and Regency are worldrenowned brands and offer a variety of energy star ratings.

“All three ranges include a wide variety of looks and designs from contemporary to traditional so our customers can easily find something to meet their requirements and budget,” explains Ali. With over fifteen years in the business, Real Fires has built an enviable reputation for excellent quality, performance and service.

“Working closely with architects and designers, the company has become a market leader, producing some of New Zealand’s most technically advanced and creative open gas fireplace designs.

Ali says that each design is carefully considered for its ability to add warmth, and individuality as well as to complement the décor.

Ali says there are three main considerations people need to think about when selecting a gas fire: heat output (the ability to heat the space in the home), efficiency (gas required to produce the required heat output) and aesthetics.

That’s where The Fire & Heating Company’s team really come to the fore.

“We have a wealth of knowledge and experience in-house and are happy to talk to our customers about their needs and requirements then recommend the best solution to suit their needs.”

Real Fire products are proudly New Zealand inspired, designed, created and produced and are backed by The Fire & Heating Company’s guarantees of quality and service.

The Fire & Heating Company supplies products for new homes and renovation projects to both trade customers and the general public.

Customers can simply purchase product or The Fire & Heating Company also offers a full installation service taking care of a customer’s project from start to finish.

People can visit The Fire & Heating Company showroom on the corner of Archers and Poland Roads in Glenfield, Auckland, to view the company’s comprehensive range of products as well as receive on the spot expert advice.

For customers in other parts of New Zealand Real Fires’ products are retailed through Plumbing World and Placemakers nationally.

| 33

34 |

HOUSE OF THE YEAR AWARDS » Sentinel Homes

Business North

Rapid growth leads to franchising Karen Phelps Sentinel Homes has just become a franchise and already offers six franchises in the North Island – four in Auckland complemented by Hamilton & Waikato South and Tauranga & Bay of Plenty.

“We pride ourselves on achieving an outstanding level of finish every time and wanted to be able to offer this to customers throughout the country. The business has grown rapidly so franchising was the next logical step,” says company quantity surveyor

Logan James. Focusing purely on new residential builds, Sentinel Homes was started in 2009.

The company offers a range of plans including contemporary, traditional and architectural homes as well as a full design and build option. It also offers house and land packages. Homes are backed by a ten-year Master Builders guarantee.

Logan says that it is the company’s genuine commitment to current building standards and expert craftsmanship that he believes sets Sentinel Homes apart. His belief is evidenced by the fact that the company won a number of regional awards in the prestigious 2015 Registered Master Builders

House of the Year competition. The company took out a gold award in the New Homes $400,000$500,000 build, bronze awards in the New Homes $500,000-$650,000 and Show Homes categories and silver in the New Homes $500,000-$650,000 build.

“We’ve won a gold award every year that we’ve entered,” says Logan. “You don’t just get these kinds of awards by accident. We work really hard to keep quality levels extremely high.”

He says achieving this covers every facet of the building process including systems and processes, material selection and choice of subcontractors,

as evidenced in the gold award winning build at Stanmore Bay. The Cape Cod-inspired villa was a design and build contract and maximized the site, says Logan. The four-bedroom home has extensive glazing and large living areas. Downstairs is dedicated to family living with a double garage, games room and small bathroom leading to the kitchen, living and dining area. Upstairs, three double bedrooms, a family bathroom and additional storage can be found. The home has in-ground tanks to store rainwater.

Clients can view the company’s strong focus on quality for themselves at the company’s award

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Business North

HOUSE OF THE YEAR AWARDS » Sentinel Homes / Glover Homes

| 35

Supreme award a `milestone’ Karen Phelps

A genuine commitment to current building standards and expert craftsmanship sets Sentinel Homes apart, says company quantity surveyor Logan James. winning show home at Riverhead. The modern show home has a rendered brick exterior in charcoal and white. Inside floor-to-ceiling windows and large stacker doors maximize indoor-outdoor flow. The home offers four bedrooms, bathroom, ensuite and double garage.

“Our approach is simple: a low-stress, handsfree building experience that delivers a stunning contemporary home,” explains Logan. “Although we enjoy working with the latest trends and materials, the Sentinel Homes values remain rock solid - to ensure that our clients get the most out of every dollar they invest in their new home.”

The franchises were opened mid last year and have been well received by the market, he says. A number of show homes to represent the franchises are in the design and consent phase and are expected to be completed by mid this year. Sentinel Homes is a member of the Franchise Association of New Zealand and is currently offering a range of franchise opportunities at various locations.

“We’re looking for builders who are like-minded and also want to focus on producing beautiful homes made to a very high level of quality. Our nationwide network is growing where we estimate that we will have around 18 franchise branches over the next few years.”

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Glover Homes has taken out the National Supreme Award for Renovation of the Year at the 2015 Registered Master Builders House of the Year competition.

It’s far from the first time the company has won awards but it’s the first time the company has come away with a prestigious national prize, which Glover Homes director JD Glover says is a milestone for the company and its team of ten staff.

The Coatesville home, which won the award, was extremely special, he says. It was not only the huge size of the renovation, which saw not a part of the original residence remain apart from the concrete floor and a few walls, but also the level of attention to detail the project required.

Set on 12 acres the home includes five bathrooms, a modern kitchen, swimming pool and a separate barn-style accommodation building.

JD says it was a project, which was constantly changing and expanding with significant aspects added, such as the 180 square metre accommodation building, during the build. Glover Homes was on site for two years completing the project.

“We carefully craft quality homes for people who are looking for something special.”

He says the company’s ability to tackle most aspects of a project in-house, including the significant landscaping on this project, was key giving greater control over quality and timing.

“We’re hands on. Clients like the fact that it’s the same team that takes their project through from start to finish,” he says.

JD, who has worked in the construction and development industry his whole life, started Glover Homes in 1999. The boutique company specializes in high-end homes.

“We carefully craft quality homes for people who are looking for something special - that’s a very important point of difference to us.

Please note that I used the word `craft’, not just build. This is because anyone can follow plans, put up framing and do the necessary things to construct a house.

• to page 36

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36 |

HOUSE OF THE YEAR AWARDS » Glover Homes

Business North

Glover Homes has taken out the Supreme Award for Renovation of the Year for this outstanding Coatesville project.

Supreme renovation award a ‘milestone’ for company • from page 35 “We take the process a whole step further – it’s all about craft, detail and doing things right.

“It’s our passion and we will stop at nothing to ensure that our clients have a quality home for life,” explains JD. The Coatesville project is a case in point and includes a number of crafted unique points of difference. For example the bollards framing the 300-metre driveway were crafted by Glover Homes from antique telephone posts that once graced Quay Street in the 1880s. Made from Tasmanian gum trees the posts still have original grooves and marks making for a unique detail as people enter or leave the property and the lights automatically switch on as a car drives by.

Inside the home antique highlights also add rustic charm. The kitchen, with a butler’s pantry, forms the centrepiece for the open-plan family and dining room.

JD says excellent indoor-outdoor flow connects the large lounge to extensive decking and alfresco

“Please note that I use the word `craft’, not just build.” living design, with dining space and lounge suite arranged by a fire.

Louvre roofing panels shut out undesirable weather. As a luxurious detail a built-in sound system and under floor heaters allow guests to enjoy the outdoors without getting cold.

JD says that since the competition win there has been increased requests for the company’s skills.

He is currently talking to a number of potential clients but says it will be on a first come first served basis that he selects the next project the company will undertake. And Glover Homes doesn’t have time to do it all.

“We want to remain the size we are because this way we can give our clients’ homes the personalized service and attention they deserve – part of the reason we won this award.”

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BUILDING » Clegg Builders

Business North

| 37

Competitive pricing still the key Karen Phelps It was in 2007 that Auckland based Clegg Builders started specialising in home renovations. It’s been a successful niche for the company, which also completes a variety of other building projects including new home builds, additions and reclads.

“Renovations are always challenging,” says company director Anthony Clegg, citing one of his reasons for focusing on this part of the market. “It’s about establishing trust and offering high levels of integrity, honesty and workmanship.”

Renovation projects also require high levels of skill and professionalism due to the tricky nature of many of these types of projects. Clegg Builders has been operating for nearly 40 years bringing decades of experience to each job, says Anthony.

The company employs ten staff including three site foremen and a number of apprentices.

This gives Clegg Builders the ability to run several projects simultaneously while still maintaining the high levels of quality and service for which it is renown, says Anthony.

All projects undertaken by Clegg Builders are full contracts from excavation, if required, to final handover. On every project a site foreman provides a single point of contact for the client and architect.

Regular site meetings ensure everybody is kept up to date with progress. Clegg Builders regularly works with two architectural practices – Houston Architects and Bailey Architects – in order to provide clients with a complete service from design to completion.

Workflow remains busy for Clegg Builders but Anthony says competitive pricing is still key. The

company is presently working on a renovation project in Titirangi, which involves extensive site works, as an existing home is being re-positioned on the site. The project also includes extensive internal renovations including repositioning of rooms and a new bathroom and kitchen.

The company has just completed a large project in Meadowbank involving excavation, addition of more bedrooms and bathrooms, renovation of the upper storey of the home, a new kitchen and new deck.

Clegg Builders is about to begin to more renovations projects in Onehunga and Titirangi.

The latter job is typical of the way Clegg Builders obtains work by word of mouth and passive advertising – the client saw the company signage outside the company’s present Titirangi project and commissioned Clegg Builders for their own project.

Clegg Builders is a member of the Certified Builders Association of New Zealand, which Anthony says helps keep the company up to date as well as offering ideas on ways to improve the business.

“Builders are not just builders any more.

We have to operate as professional building companies,” he says.

Clegg Builders also offers clients the Association’s range of guarantees and warranties as well as professional contracts and the peace of mind of a mediation service. “People are spending a lot of money when they undertake a building project and they have to have confidence in us. Being a member of the Association is one way we can help give them that peace of mind.”

Clegg Builders is also involved in volunteer

work in the Philippines, helping to build and maintain homes. Since 2000 Anthony and a team of volunteers makes an annual trip to the country, working on projects in the jungle using local materials to help make a difference in the lives of the local people, just as he hopes to make

a difference in the lives of his customers in New Zealand. “The main thing I love about building is leaving a job and seeing how happy people are. No matter what the project we always strive to ensure that the very best results are achieved on time, on budget and to scope.”

Clegg Builders specialises in home renovations (top) and is also involved in volunteer work in the Philippines (above).

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38 |

BUILDING » Henwood Builders

Business North

Northland based Henwood Builders specialises in commercial buildings and has just finished the new museum and education centre at the Treaty Grounds at Waitangi.

Waitangi museum `complex build’ Karen Phelps Commercial building specialist Henwood Builders has just completed the new museum and education centre at the Treaty Grounds at Waitangi.

Company director Terry Henwood says the company first became involved in the project six years ago and completed the construction programmes for the design team, attending design meetings to add expertise in terms of buildability before the project even went out to tender.

Due to the cultural nature of the project more stringent project management was required than normal, he says.

For example an archaeological expert was on site to monitor the extensive excavation works required. In fact this part of the project, coupled with the retaining structures, took six months before construction of the building could even begin.

The building has been built using structural steel and black oxide patterned concrete tilt panels.

Terry says this part of the construction was also

challenging at it was a technical process pouring the panels to ensure consistent quality and colour.

Patterns also had to be lined up during installation.

Another challenging aspect was the highly specialised air conditioning system required to protect the items held within the museum.

“Overall it was quite a complex build,” says Terry.

“The success of the project relied on project management, programming and communication as well as reliable subcontractors. But we quite like the challenging jobs.”

Based in Northland, Henwood Builders Limited is a commercial and domestic construction company with nearly two decades of experience as a general contractor, construction manager and design builder.

The company’s specialties include ground up construction of new buildings, interior and exterior renovations, remodelling and building additions.

Terry says that Henwood Builders Limited can tailor its services to suit the client’s individual

• to page 40

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Business North

BUILDING » Henwood Builders

| 39

Henwood Builders constructed the Waitangi Museum and Education Centre using structural steel and black oxide patterned concrete tilt panels.

Quality and accuracy Fell Engineering can take care of all the structural steel fabrication, coating and installation requirements for construction projects.

Most notably the company prides itself on producing all of its structural steel by hand using skilled local tradespeople.

“We have an extremely talented team with significant experience between them.

Because our team also erect and install the steel this increases accuracy and the finished quality of the job,” explains company director Peter Morrison.

Based at Haruru Falls near Paihia, Fell Engineering was founded in 1985 and has been owned for the past 13 years by Peter and business partner John Silveira.

The company employs around 17 staff, including certified Mig and Tig welders, and provides a range of fabrication and engineering services for the residential, commercial, infrastructure and marine sectors as well as the general public Structural steel forms the core of the business but is complimented with strong general engineering fabrication, machining, milling, repairs and maintenance, stainless steel, aluminium and sheet metal capabilities.

Nearly all the companys’ work is performed in house and Fell Engineering provides a full service including shop drawings, fabrication and coating through to erecting and installation.

Stainless steel, sheetmetal and aluminium is produced from a separate non-ferrous workshop facility to ensure no contamination, which assists with production of quality products, says Peter.

He says the company specialises in projects requiring considerable accuracy and quality such as the recent work the company completed on the new museum and education centre at the Treaty Grounds at Waitangi for Henwood Builders.

Fell Engineering completed all the structural steel for the project as well as the metalwork for the build including stainless steel handrails, mild steel gates and barriers, custom made flashings and a corten tunnel cladding as a feature of the project.

Fell Engineering had previously completed all the structural work for the visitor centre, gateway building and extensive stainless work for the toilet block located on the same site, in conjunction with Henwood Builders.

Fell Engineering specifically services the greater Northland area, although projects are undertaken from the Harbour Bridge through to Kaitaia.

Past structural steel projects completed include the Te Ahu Centre in Kaitaia, Kerikeri basin footbridge and the John Butler Centre in Kerikeri.

Demonstrating the company’s range of expertise Fell Engineering also completed the stainless steel pipework for the Haruru Falls water treatment plant, a spiral stainless steel handrail and stairway for the Te Ahu museum as well as the stainless and steel handrails and curved vehicle barriers for the recently completed Bascule Harbour Bridge in Whangarei.

The company recently completed work for the Makana Chocolate factory and is presently working on commercial projects at Millwater in Silverdale and the new Hora Hora School in Whangarei.

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40 |

BUILDING » Henwood Builders

Business North

Show homes suited to coastal living • from page 38 needs, which may include design support, preliminary budgeting, resource and logistics planning, scope management, project scheduling, project administration and supervision.

Terry and wife Leisha started the company in 1995 and within that time it has grown from a small one-man band to one of the largest building companies in the Far North, employing a team of around 20 full-time staff including highly experienced carpenters, hammer hands and labourers, many of whom have been with the company for ten years or more showing the strong loyalty base, says Terry.

“Because we employ our staff on wages rather than contract we have the people power to get the job done. It gives us greater control over quality and timing of client’s projects,” he explains.

Due to growth, the company is set to move its base to Kerikeri shortly where it is building custom built premises on a site on State Highway 10, where it already offers two show homes as the company holds the Far North franchise for Location Homes.

The three-bedroom open plan show-home on the site, which includes a monopitch roof, al fresco dining area and kitchen with scullery, has proved a popular design.

Suited to coastal living the home has already been built several times for customers.

“Location Homes offers modern, trendy designs with the option of high quality fittings,” explains Leisha.

“They are well suited to a coastal lifestyle which is why they have been popular in the Far North.”

The company also offers a full residential design and build service but it is mainly commercial contracts the company focuses on.

Past commercial projects completed by the company include the Kerikeri Sports Complex, Waterline apartments in Paihia, the new wing of Paihia Beach Resort & Spa and the Copthorne Hotel.

The company also specialises in work for the education sector and historic work.

Henwood Builders is a preferred contractor for Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga (formally the New Zealand Historic Places Trust).

Projects the company has worked on include historic churches in Russell, Waimate and Pakaraka as well as the Stone Store in Kerikeri, New Zealand’s oldest stone building.

“Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga has very specific requirements during a project so we have to have very strict programming and project management in place.

“For example we have to ensure we protect the building while we are working and have fire extinguishers on hand at all times. It’s very skilled, detailed and trusted work,” says Terry.

At present Henwood Builders is working on a large three storey architecturally designed home in Kerikeri complete with swimming pool and tennis court, a chalet upgrade at Club Paihia and the new Morris & Morris Funeral Services building in Kaikohe.

Retaining work on the Waitangi Museum and Education centre.

Congratulations to all the team at Henwood Builders on their continued success and recognition.

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Business North

BUILDING » Harris Butt Architecture

| 41

Museum blends in with landscape Karen Phelps An intention to blend the building in with the natural landscape to draw attention to the important collection held inside was the aim of the design of the new museum and education centre at the Treaty Grounds at Waitangi, says Grant Harris, director of Harris Butt Architecture.

He says it was a complex build on an extremely tight site requiring excavation into a bank and the construction of a significant retaining system to create a flat building platform and provide additional space within the building. The form of the new building was designed to replicate the slope of the existing typography and the long, low shape of the building cut into the landscape effectively reducing the building’s apparent height to a single storey.

The new Museum and Education Centre provides 607 square metres of museum display, 172 square metres of gallery display and 107 square metres of storage, all temperature and humidity controlled to the national museum standards.

The site already contains an array of buildings including the Treaty House, a colonial cottage established in 1833, Te Whare Runanga, the Whare Waka and the Waitangi Visitor Centre. Architect John Scott designed the Visitor Centre and central to Scott’s thinking was the idea of the building relating to the surrounding landscape, which is why this formed the basis for the design of the new building, explains Grant. Harris Butt Architecture has been involved in a number of previous projects on the site for Waitangi National Trust including a services building, gateway building and modifications to the visitor centre.

Harris Butt Architecture was started in 2007 by Grant, a Registered Architect, and designer Ian Butt.

Based in Whangarei the company completes work nationwide. The company works on commercial, residential, community, educational and public projects.

Significant completed projects include Waiarohia footbridge, Whangarei town basin, projects in Whangarei CBD, a clubhouse for Peninsula Golf Club in Wainui, North Cross Church on Auckland’s North Shore, Whangarei Quarry Gardens Cafe and Knoll Ridge Café at Whakapapa

The new Waitangi Museum was designed to replicate the slope of the existing typography.

Ski Field, which has won an international design award.

The café was announced as the best-designed cafe in the world as determined by leading London-based design website Design Curial, which considered 4000 cafes from New York to Tokyo.

Perched on Mount Ruapehu, Design Curial

“No building project is ever easy. It’s a matter of everyone involved working together cooperatively combined with a desire and drive to get the results the clients want.”

stated that it was the well-executed symbiosis between a location and architectural design that pushed Knoll Ridge Café ahead of the other contenders in the competition.

Grant says designing a building for such a severe environment provided its own set of unique challenges including limited road access to site and stringent requirements meaning extensive planning and logistics were required just to get materials to site.

Prefabricated concrete floor panels had to be rapidly constructed and delivered before the snow melted; these were then hauled over snow 700

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metres up to site before construction began the following summer.

Grant credits the team at Harris Butt Architecture as being one of the main reasons for the practice’s exemplary projects.

“We have a good mix of experience with technical as well as strongly designed focused people. We’re a small tight team and we all work on each project together,” he says.

“No building project is ever easy. It’s a matter of everyone involved working together cooperatively combined with a desire and drive to get the result the client wants.”

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42 |

BUILDING » Straightline Builders

Business North

Planning, systems sets firm apart Karen Phelps Straightline Builders are ‘new age’ building entrepreneurs, says company operations manager for Straightline Group, Marie August.

“We have applied corporate standards to a small business so we epitomise professionalism within the building industry,” she explains. “Our focus is firmly on the customer so we have invested in all the latest technology to guarantee our customer experience is outstanding at every touch point.”

It’s proved a recipe for success since the company opened its doors in 2013. Straightline Group was started by Bryson Rangi, who brings over 20 years of residential and commercial building experience having worked extensively in both New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Marie says it is this experience that means that Bryson is adaptable to all applications of construction but it is his passion for the craftsmanship of building, which has led Straightline Builders to focus on residential renovations and restoration work.

The types of projects the company undertakes include villa and bungalow restoration and renovation, entertainment areas and house extensions, both interior and exterior. The company manages all sub trades to ensure a seamless building experience and to ensure projects finish on time and on budget. Although the company can offer a full service including project management from beginning to end, demand for the skills offered in-house means it can also complete part of a contract if required.

Marie says that Straightline Builders has adopted effective systems to bring older homes up to the standards of today’s new builds.

“Future proofing, retrofitting and modernising key components of a renovation creates a warmer and drier home. Open planning making the most of all areas ensures the bungalows are modern and comfortable to live in.

“We have specifically concentrated on renovations because this is where we excel. The work is intricate, interesting and challenging.

It’s about knowledge, planning, preparation and organisation to ensure the successful completion of these types of projects.”

It is this focus on planning, systems and procedures, which sets the company apart, she states. The company has invested heavily in this area including utilising the latest software by GeoOp. “It’s a cloud based system so we can easily manage field workers, schedule and track jobs realtime, quote on the spot and have all the information we need at our fingertips when out on-site,” explains Marie.

In 2015 sister company Straightline Electrical was started by Bryson and Registered Electrician Daniel Farrell due to demand for this type of work in the projects being undertaken by Straightline Builders. This gives the company greater control over timing and quality of projects, says Marie.

Straightline Electrical also offers its services to the wider market. The development of Straightline Electrical is just part of the company’s continued focus on the customer, she says.

“We started Straightline Electrical to ensure our customers come first. This partnership ensures we have priority access to professional electricians working with us for speed of service and ensuring quality workmanship. The partnership also ensures

Work underway on a full renovation and extension of a 1950s state house in Birkenhead. that Straightline Electrical has priority access to professional builders when it needs them. Both companies are well connected within the building industry as well as being at the forefront of the latest industry trends,” explains Marie.

One high profile project recently completed

by Straightline Electrical was for New Plymouth couple, Cat and Jeremy, on the television series The Block.

“Dan did all the electrical work and helped them with the lighting design so they could get

the best lighting effect for each room in the home.

Straightline Electrical also completed the exterior and landscape lighting. We got some fantastic feedback from Cat and Jeremy and it’s been great for raising the profile of Straightline,” says Marie.

Based in Auckland, Straightline Group focuses mainly on Auckland City but will travel further afield depending on the project. Straightline Group employs around seven staff plus contractors as required.

Recent projects completed by Straightline Group

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Business North

BUILDING » Straightline Builders

| 43

The finished article after an internal fit-out and extension to the eastern elevation of the house. include a full restoration of a 1950s villa in Western Springs.

The home was completely gutted with an extensive interior renovation undertaken. All electrical components were state of the art including high tech data, television and audio systems and lighting solutions making the house a Smart Home.

The companies typically work on multiple projects at a time and are currently working on projects in Remuera.

“At Straightline Group we treat every job with a fresh approach, as no two jobs are alike,” says Marie. We believe in working in partnership with our customers on their project as this always ensures a superior outcome.”

“At Straightline Group we treat every job with a fresh approach, as no two jobs are alike. We believe in working in partnership with our customers on their project as this always ensures a superior outcome.”

SMART

BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY

Through advanced business technology, where work can be scheduled and processed in the cloud, in real time, GeoOp is helping to connect workers such as Marie August and Dan Farrell, from Straightline Electrical, who just happen to work 650km apart. Director Dan is the face of the company and does almost all of the electrical work for the Aucklandbased business. Operations manager Marie, who is based in Wellington, looks after the company administration. Yet with GeoOp both can collaborate together to run the business efficiently.

GeoOp is a complete job management software all wrapped into a low cost, easy to use service with premium support. With GeoOp, businesses can easily manage field workers, schedule and track jobs real-time, quote on the spot and invoice same day.

Using smart devices already in the hands of field workers, GeoOp allows the office and field worker to collaborate and share realtime job information, avoiding double entry and costly errors. For business owners this means a huge reduction in time consuming admin and an increase in profitability, free time and delighted customers.

Marie says Straightline Electrical weighed up all variables before selecting GeoOp. A technology company familiar with issues faced by local businesses was important so a New Zealand-based partner was desirable.

“We drafted a list of all of the criteria we needed, what our expectations were of the system, and then we went through the recommendations of our existing technology partners,” she says.

“All technology had to be cloud-based so that any of us could dial in (to it). It had to able to cope with us connecting in at the same time, and to be able to cope with everyone accessing it live. It needed to be mobile-friendly as well.

“The other thing was the complexity of the system. It needed to be able to handle multiple job listings, scheduling and the inventory side of things. All of these things carried weight.”

GeoOP CEO Anna Cicognani advises that when selecting software owners and managers need to follow a similar process and work out precisely what they want from their software also considering if the product will continue to meet their needs as their business grows.

As well as businesses making sure they know what piece of technology is needed, Anna says that it’s important for managers and owners to choose a reputable supplier that has good analytics, readily available and knowledgeable technical support and offers a high level of security for their data.

Marie says Straightline Electrical’s decision to go with GeoOp was straightforward: its key features aligned with the company’s technology criteria and it worked with existing suppliers.

“We use Xero’s accounting system and GeoOp works with that. Also, all of our systems run through Vodafone, which endorses GeoOp. Having that recommendation by providers was important.”

Go to www.geoop.com for a free trial today.

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44 |

Business North

CONSTRUCTION » Nauhria Precast

Competitive edge behind award Karen Phelps Focusing on developing competitive points of difference has contributed to Auckland company Nauhria Precast being named the Supreme Business Excellence award winner at the 2015 Westpac Auckland Business South awards, as well as taking home the Excellence in Innovation award.

The company was also a finalist in the Strategy and Planning category.

“We pride ourselves on having a very clear vision as an organisation; communicating that vision to our staff and empowering them so together we can achieve our goals. The awards are good recognition for the work our team has done,” says Nauhria general manager, Rakesh Nauhria, who also won the Excellence in Business Leadership award.

The company is not a first time entrant to the awards – in 2014 it was named finalists in two categories. Rakesh says it is a continual focus on developing long-term strategies, including competitive advantages, which has seen the company win the awards this year.

Nauhria Precast is a good example of this innovation at work. Nauhria Reinforcing was started in 1991 by Rakesh’s father, Roshan, to supply reinforcing steel and mesh via its fabrication service for use in concrete foundations and structures. In 2001 sister company Nauhria Precast was started as a competitive advantage as the two businesses were recognized as being complementary. Nauhria Precast manufactures and delivers concrete components to the commercial, civil and residential construction sectors. The company specialises in concrete precast wall panels, columns, beams, lintels, stairs, balconies and landings. Nauhria has also created its own brand of architectural precast panels and treads, Monarc Creative Precast, after recognizing a gap in the market.

“We researched worldwide and looked at different products and technology after identifying an opportunity in the New Zealand market for an architectural product,” explains Rakesh.

Launched in 2008, Rakesh says Nauhria invested heavily in the latest international postcast precast processing machinery to research and develop leading edge concrete mix designs and to continually refine and improve both product and production skills. Unique European casting techniques were also introduced to result in a high quality product, he says. Monarc is made from locally sourced aggregates, sands, cements and oxides.

Rakesh says that the company’s white concrete

Nauhria architectural precast panels were used extensively at The Isaac in Grey Lynn, developed in conjunction with Ockham Developments. product, called Mascarpone, is a good example of the innovative nature of the product.

“The key innovation is in terms of product quality and consistent aggregate distribution and appearance. We’ve developed processes to achieve this so we can provide a very high quality product which has been used in projects as diverse as the Sudima Hotel Auckland Airport and Pak ‘n Save Ormiston,” he says.

Other key benefits of Monarc include improved graffiti deterrence and manageability, speed and efficiency of installation as well as the company’s original and bespoke decorative designs.

Rakesh says that the innovative product has led to spin offs into other areas of the business leading

to a more innovative approach company wide.

“We are very focused on how we can continually improve the business in all aspects, doing things better, faster and more efficiently,” he explains.

He says that Nauhria has continued to expand both its physical and human resources.

“A key aspect of achieving this has been establishing effective communication across the company. For example he says that Nauhria has instigated personal development programs promoting numeracy and literacy development for its diverse multi-cultural base of highly skilled and well-educated employees, which provides Nauhria with yet another distinct advantage in the competitive construction industry.

“Staff is also always encouraged to come forward with ideas or problems they have identified that need solving. Each team at Nauhria has a board they can pin these items to and we have a daily meeting to discuss anything that is brought up.

“If it’s a problem it can be discussed and resolved. If it’s an idea we can look at its value and how it could be implemented in the company if appropriate.”

In the last two years Rakesh says that the company has averaged 25-30% annual growth.

“We’re not standing still. We plan to continue this growth by looking for other competitive advantages as our overall vision is to be the best.”

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Business North

CONSTRUCTION » Nauhria Precast

| 45

The Pak`n’ Save at the new Ormiston Town Centre, built together with Savory Construction, features Nauhria Precast’s White polished Monarc ‘Mascarpone’ concrete.

United Steel are a proud supplier to Nauhria Precast and congratulate them at their 15th Anniversary.

All your reinforcing mesh and steel requirements.

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“Our overall vision is to be the best:” Nauhria general manager Rakesh Nauhria.

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46 |

Business North

DAIRYING » Northern Dairy Specialists

Family business builds up loyal customer base Sue Russell Kevin and Jenny Waterman have owned and operated Northern Dairy Specialists, a DeLaval agency in the Far North for 11 years. They supply products and service milking machine equipment for customers in their dairy sheds from Kawakawa through to Cape Reinga.

Before moving to Kerikeri, where the business is based, Kevin ‘cut his teeth’ in the industry under the eye of Trevor and Patsy Ryan, who operated a DeLaval agency in Wellsford. They also owned and operated branches in Whangarei and the Bay of Islands.

“I learnt a great deal from Trevor, when I started working for him as a milking machine fitter. Skills and understandings I carried to my own agency.

Jenny and I brought the Bay of Islands branch from Trevor and Pat in 2005. They gave us endless support when we started up and we wouldn’t be where we are now without them,” says Kevin.

They operate their business from home, which enables them to keep overhead costs down; benefits which are passed on to their customers. Northern Dairy Specialists is a small family-run operation with wife Jenny running the administration while daughter Bailey drives the mobile truck, selling products and supporting the dairy farmers.

“We take the shop to the farm, every month Bailey does the rounds visiting the dairy farms.

Bailey is a Milk Quality Specialist and has a wealth of knowledge in dairy sheds. She is always keen to help customers requiring grade busting, mastitis troubleshooting, liner compatibility, milking plant hygiene advice and product knowledge,” Kevin says.

There are several generational farms that have a solid financial backbone in Northland. These days there’s definitely less farms and more cows as farms have been bought out and made bigger, operating to more efficient scales.

Kevin says he has a passion for the industry

“Many of our customers are my good friends and they look forward to our visits just as much as we look forward to catching up with them.” and the pioneering spirit of those he engages in business with.

“I think farmers are genuinely good people; people of the land. Most of them love their animals and the life-style farming offers. Many of our customers are my good friends and they look forward to our visits just as much as we look forward to catching up with them.”

Kevin takes care of the installation of new plants and replacement of existing machinery in the sheds, along with breakdown work and upgrades.

Machine testing is a core service he supplies as an annual ‘warrant of fitness’ check-up of the shed.

Along with this he also supplies and installs effluent systems.

The company also offers a stainless steel welding service, doing business with the honey producing sector in the North.

Kevin says the key to the company’s success has been the quality of relationships that have grown over the years with valued customers and suppliers.

“There is a lot of co-dependency in the farming industry between farmer, service businesses such as Northern Dairy Specialists and suppliers and when those relationships are strong then everyone benefits.”

DeLaval is their core supplier, a world-wide recognised supplier of milking equipment and farming products. DeLaval are leaders in the dairy

NORTHERN DAIRY SPECIALISTS

Kevin Waterman, of Northland Dairy Specialists checks on the milking plant on a dairy platform industry, supporting Northern Dairy Specialists with technology and a superior range of products to support the industry.

Over the years Kevin and Jenny have built up a loyal customer rapport. They are aware this is a difficult time because of the economic downturn in the dairy industry and sympathise with

those struggling. They very much appreciate their customers and want to continue supporting them as best they can.

“On a positive note, at least we have been getting rain, a blessing at this time of year allowing grass growth so the farmers in the North are getting extra production.”

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Business North

DAIRYING » Northern Dairy Specialists

DeLaval is the core supplier for Northland Daury Specialists

Revolutionary robotics Mark Smith is DeLaval’s North Island Regional Manager and is based at its Head office in Hamilton.

He leads a team of sales and support staff who are dedicated to providing the most significant outcomes for dairy farmers in New Zealand.

Parent company DeLaval, based in Sweden are world pioneers in research and development of sophisticated robotic Voluntary Milking Systems (VMS)’s.

“Not so many years ago the average Kiwi dairy farmer viewed robotics as a system suitable only for European dairy farming conditions, where the majority of cows are kept indoors but with the work Dairy NZ has done looking into the application of robotics in grass land environments, research has conclusively shown that Robotic technology can be applied to New Zealand farming systems,” Mark says.

In 2014 the largest robotic VMS system in the world to be housed under one roof was installed by DeLaval NZ in a 1500 cow barn dairy farm owned by the van Leeuwen family in South Canterbury.

Beyond extraction of milk the VMS Supra+, the latest robotic technology from DeLaval comes equipped with sophisticated and sensitive software systems which give the farmer precise data and management tools for every cow.

Based on milk yield, the herd management system integrated into VMS will adjust feeding to allow cows to perform at optimum levels says Mark.

Added to the VMS robotic system; the Herd Navigator milk analysis system monitors a series of parameters in the milk that allow the farmer to make informed decisions in the most important areas of dairy production.

Aspects such as reproduction, feeding and mastitis are monitored and the system delivers a standard operating procedure that needs to be implemented to resolve issues even before they appear.

“We are talking about revolutionising the way farmers spend their time and that of key staff on the farm. That’s the most significant impact I feel the robotic era has heralded in farming.”

For farmers who may think the lack of handling of the cows daily will result in a loss of sense of knowing their situation Mark says the opposite is actually the case.

Instead, the level of information the farmer receives in real time when the system has dedicated even slight abnormal readings means he/she can focus their attention on the animals that need it.

On the question of cost Mark says there are still many myths and misunderstandings as to the bottom line.

“When the benefits of adopting a robotic farm system are fully explained and especially the significant leap in reporting the farmer receives are taken into account along with the dependability of the system more and more farmers can see the benefits that flow.

“A four station installation can milk 300 – 350 cows and if you include all the accessories you are looking at a cost of around $175,000 per station. Added to this is the cost of buildings and yards.”

These days when considering just how important milk quality and traceability is to our export markets Marks says the sophisticated level of information the VMS software records and holds information on every drop of milk it harvested is an enormous plus.

One brand backed by a strong local team that can supply all of your dairy equipment needs

DeLaval are proud to support Northern Dairy Specialists. Congratulations on supporting farmers in the area for the last 15 years.

23 Wiroa Road, RD3, Kerikeri Ph 09 407 3400

| 47

48 |

ENGINEERING » A & G Price Engineering

Business North

Furnace rebuild coup for company Sue Russell Though A & G Price first opened its doors as a steel foundry over 140 years ago, the Thames based business, which proudly still works out of its original building, has long since evolved other services to include specialised welding and fabrication work.

General Manager Nick Box says this diversification was show-cased recently when the company completed a substantial project for a rebuild of a massive nickel furnace for one of the largest nickel mines in the South Pacific.

“We successfully bid against top international competition for this project, competing with tenders from Malaysia, Australia and Europe,” Nick explains.

The success of the bid, he says, came down not only to price, but to the proven performance of the company in past jobs for this customer as well the technical expertise required to meet the very exacting level of quality the project demanded.

“We had extremely challenging time-frames in which to produce the furnace housing and key to delivering on time was the ability to restructure our work force and to call in contractors, which meant we could work around the clock for seven straight weeks amassing a total of 14000 welding hours.”

As this was a complete new design and build, the project involved daily contact with the customer’s design engineers, both in NZ and off shore, to constantly modify the specification to ensure the end product performed to expectation, as well as meeting deadlines.

Compounding the challenges was the fact that the tight delivery time frame meant a trial assembly of the 10 radial and tapered pie segment units was not possible. Instead, with some thinking out of the box, each unit was fully laser scanned to produce

“We successfully bid against top international competition for this project.”

Proudly supporting the NZ Metal casting industry

Staff and contractors worked around the clock for seven weeks to produce the furnace housing. a 3D image that could then be assembled in the virtual world and subsequently superimposed over the original CAD models.

“Our customer’s requirement was all ten segments had to fit together with no gaps and by using the scanning and virtual assembly process we could prove the accuracy of the fabrication while highlighting any minor rectification work required.”

The job specifications for the furnace build are as impressive as the structure itself: The base used 90 tons of steel to fabricate 10 uniquely individual segments, over 9km of weld, a flatness tolerance +/- 1.5 mm over a 3metre span. When all 10 segments were assembled a 7mm tolerance on 16.8 metres overall diameter was achieved. The 19 lower kiln shells and ancillary components added a further 30 tons with similarly demanding tolerances.

“This tolerance made it one of the most accurate furnace bases in the world,” says Nick. As all segments were over width, pilot vehicle’s were

used in transporting the units to Taranaki for stress relieving and painting. “We only had a three hour window for transport to the Port of Auckland. It was a stressful time negotiating early morning Auckland traffic but we did it.”Nick says the company is the only one of its type in Australasia, combining specialised steel casting, machining and fabrication divisions under the one roof.

“As Thames leading manufacturing industry we are also a key employer for local engineers.

Currently we have seven apprentices on the books.

The work is hard, demanding really precision quality skill sets and a strong work ethic but when you look at projects like the furnace base we created there is an enormous sense of satisfaction.”

About Us Ixom is the market leader in water treatment and chemical distribution in Australia and New Zealand, with a growing presence in Latin America and Asia.

Contact us Level 5, Office Tower, 277 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland 1023, New Zealand Phone: 0800 222 277

www.ixom.com

Air Liquide is proud to provide industrial gases and gas related services to A & G Price At Air Liquide, we strive to provide innovative solutions to industries in this very competitive market. Whether you are supplying your products locally or internationally, you need to be more efficient than your competitors. Developments with gas and gas related services such as reticulation systems and the ALTOP ™ Integrated Regulator provide this competitive advantage.

For more details, please call one of our Customer Services Representatives on 0800 838 838

HEAD OFFICE & FACTORY A&G PRICE LTD 208 Beach Road Thames, New Zealand

Telephone: +64 7 868 6060 sales@agprice.co.nz www.agprice.co.nz

Established in 1868, A & G Price Ltd is one of New Zealand’s largest and longest established engineering works. Comprising a total capability foundry, heavy machine shop, fabrication section and fitting bays, we offer the highest level of engineering expertise to a wide range of industries.

Foseco are proud to be associated with

A & G Price P 09 267 7658 F 09 267 1185 salesnz@foseco.com

Business North

MARINE » Nautech Marine

| 49

Corrosion tip – always flush your boat Kelly Deeks Auckland’s Nautech Marine uses a combination of lifelong boating experience, extensive stainless steel and aluminium fabrication experience, and a natural innovation and problem solving ability to create custom made boat accessories and repair aluminium boats.

Kay and Adam Trott started Nautech Marine 10 years ago. Adam Trott was an aeronautical engineer in the Royal New Zealand Air Force for 12 years, learning his trade and developing his skills on aircraft and ground related equipment.

On leaving the Defence Force, he wanted to utilise those skills and combined with a lifelong interest in recreational boating, and a handful of useful contacts, he started working out of his own garage before demand saw him take on a workshop, and his wife Kay to help develop the business, in the same year.

Nautech Marine completes repairs to aluminium boats, from small leaks to major accidents, where the company works closely with boat owners and their insurance providers to repair their boat back to seaworthy condition, ensuring safety is paramount.

A typical problem in aluminium boats is corrosion.

“Many aluminium boat owners are not aware of how important it is to ensure their hulls are checked and maintained regularly,” Adam says.

“People have this idea that aluminium boats are maintenance free, but you’ve still got to clean them and take care of them. Rust never sleeps, but it can be easily managed by taking a few simple steps after each outing.”

Most corrosion in aluminium boats starts from the inside out, so by the time it shows on the outside of the boat, it is usually a lot worse than a pin hole and will require a professional repair.

“One of the most important things to do after

Nautech Marine manufactures custom made boat accessories like these rocket launches and bimini tops. Its largest project was a custom made underwater survival training simulator (above right). each fishing trip is to flush out the hull of your boat with fresh water,” he says. “Leave the boat parked bow high and the bungs open, enabling the hull to drain completely and breathe, preventing sweating.”

He says there will be no corrosion if there is no moisture present, so boats need to be kept clean and dry.

“Lift the floor at least twice a season to check your hull. Check no sinkers, hooks or debris are blocking any cut-outs which allow the water to escape to the bilge area. And check the hull itself for any cracks, leaks, or spots of corrosion forming. If in doubt, contact us for our professional opinion.”

Nautech Marine also fabricates top quality

stainless steel and aluminium products that aren’t easily bought off the shelf.

Standard custom made boat accessories include rocket launchers, bimini tops, bait stations, fuel and live bait tanks, ski arches and ski poles, and a wide range of deck accessories.

“Often customers are wanting something specific to their situation and this is where Adam’s innovative skills and experience are able to be utilised to fabricate a custom made solution,” says Kay Trott.

“Nautech Marine is renowned for quality and innovative flare, and over the years we’ve been challenged to create some real one-off solutions.

Its largest project to date occurred when Blue Water Survival, a sea and environmental survival

training company in Palmerston North, wanted a custom made underwater survival training simulator that was a step above anything else of its kind in New Zealand.

Blue Water Survival’s Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET) programme is designed to teach helicopter flight crew and passengers the skills to survive a ditching in water and safely escape from a submerged aircraft.

Nautech Marine custom built the training simulator complete with hydraulically controlled lift and 360 degree rotation, ejecting doors and windows, flight controls, headset connectors, load rings, and both front and rear adjustable seating including stretcher options for those involved in Search and Rescue.

Standing the test of time Since 1964, North Shore Canvas has supplied and installed all types of covers for recreational, domestic, and commercial use as well as outdoor and marine upholstery.

North Shore Canvas managing director Craig Cruickshank says the company has survived through New Zealand’s economic diversifications of the 70’s, its reform of the 80s and 90s, the global recession of 2008, and will be continue to be around in 20 years’ time.

“We have been going for so long because we offer loyalty and honesty, which is sometimes missing in today’s world,” he says.

“We have been fortunate to have a low turnover of staff which is synonymous with our core beliefs, and we’re still dealing with the same group of clients who have been coming back to us for years and years.”

From a small fledgling business owned by his father Alan, North Shore Canvas grew very quickly and at one stage was one of the largest marine trimming companies on the North Shore.

North Shore Canvas currently has seven staff, including designers, fabricators, and installers.

Over the past 30 years, Craig has seen the available product range expand exponentially.

“The importers have expanded and we are able to offer more outdoor products than ever before,” he says.

“We used to follow two main trends – Australia and America – and now with Europe playing a big part too, the variety available is huge.”

In previous years, the bulk of work done

by North Shore Canvas was for boat canopies, covers, and marine upholstery but in today’s market, domestic awnings and patio screens now also account for a major percentage of the company’s work.

“The old metal conservatories of bygone days are now out of vogue and have been replaced by outdoor areas with awnings, shade sails, patio screens, and full aluminium/pvc roofing systems.”

North Shore Canvas works closely with its customers to come up with the right design for the application, offering a wide range of suitable fabrics, and also the ability to supply installation.

Not only is the company a manufacturer, it can supply and install large galvanised steel poles to the customer’s site.

The marine industry is still a major market for North Shore Canvas, which specialises in custom design, manufacture, and installation of boat canopies, boat seats, accessory covers, and boat storage covers.

North Shore Canvas works closely with Nautech Marine which has the ability to fabricate stainless/alloy frames for boats in order to satisfy the customer’s needs.

In recent years, the most popular choice of frames for boats being the rocket launcher style, with eyebrow canopy and sides.

North Shore Canvas is an Auckland based manufacturer and retailer of all types of Awnings and Covers for recreational, domestic and commercial use.

We have a large and comprehensive display of all types of products for your boat and home . Stockists of Planasol and Sunbrella canvas in varying widths, Pvc (multi-purpose marine grade), specialised ranges of marine chandlery and hardware (stainless and galvanised), Rope, Velcro, Braid, Webbing, and plastic fasteners.

Contact us now

sales@northshorecanvas.co.nz | 09 443 1178 www.northshorecanvas.co.nz 20 Kaimahi Rd, Wairau Valley, Glenfield

50 |

Business North

HORTICULTURE » Lynwood Avocado Nursery

Avocado boom fuels expansion A worldwide boom in the avocado industry is fuelling growth for New Zealand company Lynwood Avocado Nursery.

Company director Stephen Wade, who operates the business with wife Samantha, says that consumption of avocados is increasing by 10% per annum internationally.

“Avocadoes are increasingly being recognised as a super fruit. The Guinness Book of Records have even termed avocados as the world’s most nutritious fruit,” he says.

Although Stephen says that the avocado industry worldwide is planting to keep up with demand, market growth for avocadoes is still exceeding this by 6 to 7% each year. Added to the mix is the fact that production can also prove fickle, dependent on uncontrollable factors such as

weather, meaning demand is outstripping supply.

Lynwood Avocado Nursery predominantly supplies trees to the New Zealand avocado industry – retail nurseries and orchards. In the last three years the business has doubled each year as Lynwood struggles to keep up with demand driven by needs of the international market for the fruit. In 2015 the company propagated 70,000 trees after an additional 30,000 trees were propagated on 0.5ha of the property. Stephen predicts this figure will rise to 100,000 trees in 2016. To cope with the huge growth the company has built additional greenhouses as well as hiring greenhouse space.

Other challenges have included a huge increase in staff as well as up skilling existing staff members to cope with the growth. In the last year staff numbers have increased from eight to 22 and Stephen expects numbers to increase to 30 by the end of 2016.

Although the focus of the business is on the

nursery the Wade family plans to maintain a small orchard, currently 7ha producing around 15 tonnes of fruit per hectare.

“We have to advise our clients so we have to be on the cutting edge of new production techniques,” explains Stephen.

The company has also undergone a new management strategy to future proof the growing business.

“Avocadoes are know to be biannual bearers so we need to manage our way through that. We average 15 tonnes per hectare, which by industry standards is good, but there are some growers in the Far North averaging more like 30 tonnes so we are always trying to do better. The old thinking was not to prune trees too much to encourage bigger crops but the problems with bigger trees are you can’t shelter them. We’ve had cyclones come through which have done a lot of damage.

For example in 2007 we had a big storm come

through that took out 10% of our trees as well as causing other damage. Smaller trees can be sheltered and sprayed better and are easier to pick making harvesting costs cheaper. With smaller trees and high density planting you also get a full canopy area in year five as opposed to year nine or ten with larger trees. The industry worldwide is trending towards high density planting so three years ago we followed. We now plant 550 trees to the hectare and trees will never get more than three metres high so we can do the entire avocado picking from the ground. High density planting will ultimately help with fruit quality and size.”

The 13ha Lynwood Avocado Nursery property was purchased by the Wade family in 1941. It was in 1983 that the first 4ha of orchards were planted.

In 1988 the nursery started producing its first trees. In 2000 the company commenced trialling of clonal rootstock production. Stephen says that expansion will be on-going as predicted increases

The expertise of our people and planning, coupled with our commitment to the industry, means our growers are in safe hands.

www.avoco.co.nz

BN0216

Karen Phelps

Business North

HORTICULTURE » Lynwood Avocado Nursery

Lynwood Avocado Nursery is gearing up to meet projected demand for the trees. in demand from new markets such as China and India come into play. The Wades are also exploring the option of offering their services in an advisory role to these burgeoning markets.

“These markets are at the very beginning

of knowing what an avocado is so the growth potential for the industry worldwide is enormous.

Of course you have some growing pains when a business increases as much as ours is at the moment but it’s very exciting.”

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Business North

TRANSPORT » Exclusive Boat Haulage

Exclusive Boat Haulage’s new boat trailer which is submersible and can be adjusted to widths of 2.5 to 3.5 metres

Trailer gives firm competitive edge Karen Phelps Exclusive Boat Haulage has established its business by setting itself apart from competitors especially by investing heavily in designing its own purpose built equipment.

Now the company has just completed a new trailer for use on its jobs, which is submersible and can be adjusted to widths of 2.5 – 3.5m depending on the boat being transported.

The trailer was designed with the assistance of local engineering company Brian Morgan Engineering and enables Exclusive Boat Haulage to carry larger boats, fitting them inside the trailer for easy and safe transportation to more distant locations, says Exclusive Boats Haulage director Johnny (JJ) Klinac. Since being out on the job since December the trailer has already been put to good use transporting a number of catamarans for clients.

The new design complements the company’s other custom designed trailers, which allow Exclusive Boat Haulage to move boats for customers without the need of a crane, saving

clients both time and money, says JJ. The innovative trailer is separated from the truck at the boat ramp, the boat is floated on and the trailer is then winched back up the ramp to the truck.

The boat is then transported to site and the trailer operations put into effect once again to deposit the boat where required.

The development of the trailers was also a collaboration with Brian Morgan Engineering as well as Murray Squires, who came up with the prototype the eventual trailer was developed from. All three trailers developed by the company are fitted with mudguards to protect the boats hull from stone chips and road damage.

Exclusive Boat Haulage was started by Peter Jacob and purchased by JJ and his wife Shelley just over three years ago. JJ has been in transport his whole life owning a number of successful transport companies including Northliner Express, Northliner Haulage and the Dune Rider bus company. When Peter called to offer him the opportunity to purchase Exclusive Boat Haulage JJ says he thought about it for ten minutes then decided to buy the company as he was looking for a smaller business, something he could do on his own without needing staff.

JJ is the man on the job and Shelley is often seen driving the pilot traffic control vehicle, which drives in front of the boat being transported. Shelley also takes care of the administration side of the business including bookings.

Considering the Klinacs have owned the company such a short time the development of their exclusive trailers is even more impressive. JJ acknowledges that Exclusive Boats Haulage has had to invested heavily to come up with the designs but says it has been worth the effort as the trailers

allow the company to tow mono to multi hulled vessels in an efficient and price competitive manner.

Clients include boat brokerage firms such as Gulf Group Marine Brokers and Vining Marine as well as private boat owners.

“I’ve always wanted to do things differently from everyone else,” says JJ. “We do not want to be a large company.

“We look after each boat as if it was our own and we want to stay small and personal so we can really look after our clients.”

Brian Morgan Engineering Transport Engineering Truck and Trailer Work Proud to be associated with Exclusive Boat Haulage

Business North

TRANSPORT » Northern Rural Haulage

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Varied fleet a bonus in downturn Karen Phelps A downturn in the dairy industry has meant that Northern Rural Haulage has simply picked up more roading work, says company director Doug Wilson.

“Because we have a lot of different models of trucks in our fleet it means we can cater to a wide range of needs,” he says.

Based near Whangarei, Northern Rural Haulage was formed by Doug in 2009 to specialise in bulk cartage to the local and rural areas throughout Northland. As the company has grown it now delivers from Northland down to the Waikato and Tauranga. The company employs a team of drivers and owner drivers who provide a range of transportation options including 30 tonne tip truck and trailers, six wheelers, a flat deck transporter and a five tonne tipper.

Doug, who has clocked up more than 40 years in the industry working his way up from driver to owner driver before moving into management positions, says reliability and service are what sets Northern Rural Haulage apart.

“When our customers need something they need it on time – not early or late,” he says. “For example we do a lot of palm kernel work so if we delivered early farmers would have storage problems and have to mix old and new stock together. If we delivered it late then they would run out of supply.

So it’s vital we get it right every time and that’s what we’ve built our reputation on.”

He says that by constantly investing in new fleet the company can maintain a reliable service for its customers. Northern Rural Haulage has just added an extra truck and trailer unit to its fleet now offering a total of 16 units to keep up with demand, says Doug.

Another important recent change for the company has been a shift to undertaking more cartage in-house reducing its reliance on outside contractors. Doug says this has added to the company’s trademark reliability by giving greater control.

Bulk haulage specilaists Northern Rural Haulage has just added an extra truck and trailer to its fleet and now offers a total of 16 units.

Northern Rural Haulage undertakes all sorts of general cartage work for its largely rural client base including hay bales, metal for farm races, fertiliser, bark, woodchip, sawdust, shavings, top soil, sand, manure and silage. The company has

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also completed cartage for companies such as United Civil Construction and is currently working on a two-year contract to cart metal and fill for the Brynderwyn Hills roading reconstruction and realignment near Whangarei.

Another important client is Greenfingers in Whangarei with Northern Rural Haulage carting products to the Auckland area.

• To page 54

54 |

TRANSPORT » Northern Rural Haulage

AUTOMOTIVE » A&D Automotive Business North

Kaikohe repair business a real family affair Sue Russell

Northern Rural Haulage continues to focus on reliability, service and quick response.

Fuel tank reduces costs, time • From page 53 Northern Rural Haulage employs ten staff including a health and safety office reflecting the company’s dedication to this aspect of the job, says Doug.

The company trains drivers in-house from scratch as well as offering opportunities for upskilling. Northern Rural Haulage is a member of the National Road Carriers.

Doug says the current focus is on keeping costs down reflecting the downturn in the dairy industry.

One way the company has managed to achieve this has been by having Waitomo Petroleum install a fuel tank in the Northern Rural Haulage yard.

This move has not only reduced the

company’s fuel costs by reducing its reliance on stopping at truck stops but has also saved considerable time tightening up the operation.

“Sometimes drivers had to drive off route to find a fuel stop to re-fuel. By having our own tank in our yard we have increased efficiencies as drivers can fuel up easier and quicker. GPS tracking on trucks also shows us where they are at all times,” explains Doug.

It’s just part of the company’s continued focus on reliability, service and quick response: “When customers ring up to book in a job we have to be responsive. It’s a vital aspect of our operation and the continued high level of service we have built the company’s reputation on for many years and will continue to do so for many years to come.”

Max and Shirley Andresen have been operating their busy Kaikohe automotive repair business for 20 years, the last decade as sole owners.

“We didn’t just buy the building and gear we also inherited at the time three great staff. We’ve grown the business from its original two working bays and office on a mezzanine floor to now include six bays just to handle the volume of work,” Shirley says.

While Max is hands-on running the workshop and scheduling jobs for their qualified diesel mechanics Shirley takes care of all the administration work.

The couple have very loyal bonds to their current team of eight technicians. When the economic crisis of a few years ago finally impacted on demand for the services A & D Automotive and Engineering offered, Shirley says they managed to work through without needing to let anyone go by simply rationalising workshop hours.

“All our staff used to work on Saturdays but now we don’t.

“It’s meant a better work/life balance for us all.

We always have someone on call though to handle urgent jobs.”

Call-outs can take staff in the company’s specialised servicing truck out on the road covering a sizeable chunk of central Northland, from Kaitaia through to Whangarei, though Shirley says the bulk of the company’s regular work is scheduled servicing of clients’ fleets of trucks, diggers, bulldozers along with car and 4 wheel drive servicing.

“Our mobile repair service is very specialised and includes repairing hydraulic hoses on the spot,” says Shirley.

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She describes the retail sector in Kaitaia as struggling, unlike the service industries which are in a positive position.

“We have one employee full time engineering, while the rest can turn their hands to welding and hydraulic work alongside the mechanical.”

When not working Max and Shirley, along with most of their staff, are involved in the popular local speedway and the Circle Track Association.

While Max has been President of the Circle Track Association for seven years Shirley says she has been the treasurer practically ‘forever’.

It’s a past-time they both enjoy with each racing a super saloon V8 on the Kaikohe racing track, four kilometres south-east of the town.

Speedway has had a long history in the district and regular racing days can often attract hundreds of spectators and competitors.

That number can swell to thousands on special invitation race-days. Shirley says the sport has a real family feel to it and many of their clients also race.

Last year brought some challenges for the couple when Max had a double knee replacement in June.

“He is still very involved daily in the workshop and the knees still affect him at times.”

Shirley and Max both enjoy working in a small town where repeat customers are the backbone of the business, many of whom have had their vehicles repaired and serviced with A & D Automotive for years.

“I would like to especially thank all our loyal customers who have supported us in this area year in year out.

“It’s meant we have been able to evolve the business to meet their changing needs and that of the industries we service.”

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Business North

AUTOMOTIVE » A&D Automotive

| 55

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56 |

Business North

CONSTRUCTION » Angara NZ

Strong, durable decking a `win-win’ Karen Phelps Auckland based construction company Angara Ltd is the new sole New Zealand supplier of Heveatech decking. Angara Ltd director, Svetlana Danilova, says that the company decided to start importing the product into the New Zealand market after being introduced to it on a building project and being impressed with the strength and durability it offers.

“Consistent moisture content, controlled process and proprietary technology are applied to Heveatech to ensure a solid LVL and LVB structure. Impregnation increases the density of the wood product and prevents water absorption that contributes to the stability and durability problems of normal wood. The layer-by-layer treatment ensures Heveatech has a structure, which is wholly uniform in terms of density and moisture, combined with technology, which enables Heveatech to be resistant to insect, termite and also tough weather.

This means the product is very stable and durable as well as being easy to work with,” she says.

The product also has ‘green’ credentials as it is made from rubber trees that are felled from legal sites at the end of their natural 20 to 30-year latex production life span.

“Traditionally these logs from felled rubber trees are burned by farmers to make way for a new crop. The purchase of these felled rubber trees for the manufacturing of Heveatech creates a win-win situation. Farmers gain additional income to finance the plantation of their next crop without the need for burning and polluting the environment or the need to clear the debris from the burning. This in turn reduces the lag time required for the planting of their next crop,” explains Svetlana.

Released to the New Zealand market last year, Heveatech is made from 100% real wood and comes with a 25-year structural warranty against delamination plus a 20-year warranty against decay.

Heveatech is being marketed direct to the public and other building companies and Angara Ltd also uses it in its own building projects.

Angara Ltd was started by Vassiliy and Svetlana in 2001 and now employs ten staff. Svetlana takes care of the company office while Vassily manages the projects on site.

The company has worked either as primary or subcontractor on a number of significant projects in the Auckland region such as the Museum of Transport and Technology aviation hall and Poynton Retirement Village as well as venturing into the South Island market on occasion.

Angara Ltd undertakes residential and commercial projects including new residential builds, renovations and maintenance. With regards to commercial projects the company primarily contracts its carpentry services to larger construction companies such as Downer, Haydn & Rollett Construction, Renovo Group and Naylor Love.

Angara Ltd is presently working on the new science building being constructed at Auckland University, completing carpentry work for Fletcher Construction.

The company is also completing a major restoration and renovation of an historic home in Devonport. The project involves construction of a new swimming pool, garage, sauna and deck as well as restoration of external and internal areas of the home, which was originally built in 1897.

Auckland-based construction company Angara Ltd has worked on significant projects such as the Museum of Transport and Technology aviation hall and is now the sole New Zealand supplier of Haveatech decking (below).

As the house is historic Svetlana says the project has required a high degree of organisation and craftsmanship. For example tiles for the slate

roof had to be imported from Wales and replica features of the home have had to be handcrafted demonstrating the company’s high levels of skill.

Angara Ltd – official representative of HEVEATECH in New Zealand www.heveatechdecking.co.nz

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Ph 09 4210669 Mob 021 715 220

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